The Kyrgyz parliament has passed a law prohibiting gambling, including in casinos and slot halls.

News agency 24.kg reports that the law prohibiting gambling passed in three readings.

Reaction from the president of the Gambling and Entertainment Complexes Association, Mirlan Tashmanbetov, was quick. Speaking at a press conference, Tashmanbetov said, “The gambling business in Kyrgyzstan has been driven into the shadows.”

Tashmanbetov said the law that closed down gaming establishments violates the rights of business people.

“The decision cannot be taken without analysis of the situation,” said Tashmanbetov. “It is necessary to estimate how it will affect the economy. We do not deny that gambling can harm the population; this must be fought. But closing casinos is not a way out. They are the only places that operate legally.”

He noted that in Kazakhstan and Russia there are special zones for gambling establishments, while underground casinos flourish in major cities.

“We will have the same situation,” he said. “But we have fewer resources to combat illegal business.”

By GGB Staff

Staff writers for Global Gaming Business magazine. Las Vegas, Nevada.