Georgia’s Parliament has approved tax incentives for casinos hosting international gambling tournaments, with 73 votes in favor and five against. The bill was fast-tracked and passed all three readings on October 27–28. Co-author Shota Berekashvili said the initiative aims to attract foreign visitors and boost tourism during the low season.
Under the new legislation, only licensed casinos can organize international tournaments, with at least 80% of participants required to be foreign nationals. Organizers must obtain a separate annual permit costing GEL 100,000.
Casinos will be exempt from the gaming business fee on tables used exclusively for tournaments with prize pools exceeding GEL 3 million. Foreign participants’ winnings from qualifying events will also be exempt from personal income tax, while other individuals’ taxable income will be taxed at 20%.
Violations of permit conditions will incur a GEL 50,000 fine, while organizing tournaments without a permit will carry a GEL 150,000 penalty.
