Armenia Launches Monitoring Center to Regulate the Gambling Industry

During a government meeting on January 11, Rustam Badasyan, Chairman of the State Revenue Committee of Armenia, emphasized the necessity of integrating the information systems, software, and databases of gaming companies into the newly established monitoring center. This integration aims to streamline the electronic management system for the gambling sector. Furthermore, Badasyan highlighted the requirement for all slot machines to meet international standards.

As part of this initiative, an electronic management system will be introduced. This system will facilitate the connection of information systems, software, and databases of gaming organizers to the monitoring center. Additionally, all gaming products integrated into this system must adhere to international technical standards and obtain the requisite certifications.

The Chief Tax Officer clarified that all gambling-related products, including betting and gaming equipment, must receive certification from reputable international laboratories.

Badasyan emphasized that this certification process will be overseen by an operator selected by the government through a competitive bidding process. Furthermore, all gaming products must be linked to a monitoring center, which will provide real-time information on placed bets, winnings, and other relevant data.

Gaming equipment that has passed certification will be able to guarantee a certain percentage of winnings within a specified period. The minimum amount from the total programmed winnings must constitute 90% of the revenue generated from organizing gambling activities.

New restrictions have been implemented for gambling activities, both in live-casinos and online platforms. These restrictions prohibit individuals under the age of 21, beneficiaries of state subsidy programs or assistance for needy families, and individuals legally recognized as having limited capacity due to gambling addiction.

The Chairman of the State Revenue Committee suggested implementing these changes either by July 1, 2024, or January 1, 2025.

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