Belarus unlikely to be a major online gambling market

The Belarusian Tax and Duties Ministry this week dampened hopes for the new online gambling dispensation in the eastern European jurisdiction by commenting that there are low expectations when it comes to online casino revenues and growth…at least in the foreseeable future.

Deputy Tax and Duties Minister Vladimir Mukvich, whose ministry will regulate the activity, told the media that online gambling will be legalised in Belarus starting from 1 April 2019, when the basic norms of the enabling government decree come into force.

The minister observed: “We cannot say that there will be a large number of them in 2019-2020. We do not see any preconditions for such a trend.” He added that the ministry is focused on ensuring that online gambling does not become a monopoly activity and expects applicants to be able to meet stringent regulatory requirements.

For example, betting offices that accept bets online will need a new licence, and a transitional period for such offices will be provided through to 1 April 2021.

Operators will also be required to contribute to a “pledge fund” which, in the event of financial insolvency, will secure settlements with players and the budget. The size of the fund has not yet been determined, but the decision on it will be made before the new regulations are implemented.

The protection of personal data of online casino players is another area of utmost importance, the minister declared, calling for the certification of security systems.

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