Uzbekistan Legalizes Online Gambling Starting 2025

Imagine placing a winning bet in Uzbekistan’s emerging digital casino landscape.
Starting January 2025, the nation’s dynamic reforms transform a once-closed market into a global legal betting haven.
Picture elevated trust, secure player verification, and thriving iGaming regulations that reward both seasoned pros and curious newcomers.
Embrace this new era, register early, and seize the unique opportunities in Uzbekistan’s Central Asia gambling market.

Uzbekistan Legalizes Online Gambling: New Regulations and Opportunities from 2025

3 Key Points:

1. Starting in 2025, Uzbekistan’s iGaming regulations will allow fully licensed Uzbekistan online gambling.
2. Operators must hold a valid NAPP license, maintain reserve funds, and follow strict compliance rules.
3. The new framework supports online lottery, responsible gambling measures, and secure player verification.

Starting January 1, 2025, Uzbekistan will welcome a new era of Uzbekistan online gambling. The Cabinet of Ministers approved fresh iGaming regulations in December 2024, setting the stage for legal online lottery, casino-style digital platforms, and streamlined legal betting operations. This shift marks a significant move within the Central Asia gambling market, where many nations remain cautious about liberalization. Yet, Uzbekistan’s leadership intends to position itself as a regional pioneer, embracing modernization and economic growth.The decision follows an April presidential decree that authorized regulated online gambling. By integrating structured rules, government oversight, and robust secure player verification, Uzbekistan aims to attract reputable operators. These companies can now apply for a NAPP license, issued by the National Agency for Prospective Projects, to operate within the country’s digital landscape. The initial license fee stands at 18.75 million soums (around $1,500), while changes or modifications cost about 9.375 million soums ($730). Though these fees seem modest, the true challenge lies in meeting rigorous compliance standards and establishing stable reserve funds.

Moreover, the new regulations mandate that all operational platforms use Uzbekistan’s national internet segment. This ensures localized, secure, and reliable hosting. In addition, gaming software and random number generation technology must pass tests by authorized labs. These rules help ensure fairness, transparency, and player protection, which are essential for building a trustworthy brand image in the eyes of both local and international players.

The financial prerequisites reflect Uzbekistan’s commitment to stability and security. Online gambling operators must maintain at least 56.25 billion soums ($4.4 million) in authorized capital and hold 28.125 billion soums ($2.2 million) in reserve funds. Online lottery operators face a slightly lower but still substantial threshold, ensuring that only serious contenders enter the market. This approach helps prevent market oversaturation and promotes a sustainable model for everyone involved.

Another crucial aspect of these Uzbekistan gambling reforms involves safeguarding minors and vulnerable individuals. The new system requires secure player verification, ensuring that only verified adults can participate. Operators must maintain a Unified State Register of Bets and Players. This database helps track transactions, detect suspicious activities, and enforce strict identity checks. Furthermore, the government will prohibit individuals under 18 from accessing online platforms. Similarly, those with self-reported gambling issues or court-imposed bans will find no entry.

The government takes a no-nonsense stance on illegal operators. Foreign entities serving Uzbek players without proper licenses can face fines and penalties. About half of these penalties go directly to the NAPP, supporting ongoing oversight, quality assurance, and policy improvements. Ownership rules disqualify those with links to financial crimes or regulatory breaches, ensuring the market’s integrity.

By January 2025, regulatory documents will be finalized. The NAPP, Ministry of Internal Affairs, Central Bank, and Tax Committee will collaborate to ensure compliance, stability, and transparency. With these robust measures, Uzbekistan aspires to attract reputable operators, encourage responsible gambling, and foster an environment of trust and growth.In summary, Uzbekistan’s daring venture into legal online lottery and legal betting platforms signals a critical turning point. By blending strict iGaming regulations, careful licensing, and secure player verification, the nation sets a new standard in the Central Asia gambling market. As 2025 approaches, operators and players can anticipate an evolving, secure, and profitable environment that ushers in a fresh chapter of opportunity and innovation.