Georgian Dream MP Shota Berekashvili says Parliament is fast-tracking amendments offering tax incentives for international gambling tournaments to boost tourism during the low season, particularly in February, March and April.
The bill was registered on October 26 and is being reviewed under an accelerated procedure, with Parliament expected to complete its three readings on October 27–28. Berekashvili said the tournaments could bring high-spending foreign visitors to hotels during periods of low occupancy, supporting tourism-related economic activity.
He said international tournament organizers typically coordinate participant lists and venues with local authorities, adding that the events are intended to support the tourism sector. The proposed framework would require permits and establish rules governing tournament locations and participation.
Addressing social concerns, Berekashvili argued that existing gambling restrictions would also apply to tournament participants, including age limits and exclusions for individuals on the gambling blacklist. Under revisions introduced during the bill’s second reading, Georgian citizens would be limited to 20% of participants.
