Armenia to Implement Strictest Gambling Regulations to Combat a Massive Surge in Addiction

A Rapid Rise Raises Alarm

Armenia’s lawmakers are facing a fast and troubling shift — online betting has surged. Figures show wagers rose from 0.2 trillion drams in 2017. By 2025, that number may reach 7.4 trillion drams. That is a more than 35-fold increase in less than a decade. Officials now describe online casinos as a growing social threat. The scale of change has raised concern across political and economic circles. 

Beyond the numbers, the human cost appears to be rising. Many users reportedly struggle to stop despite clear financial harm. Access remains constant — users can play at any time, anywhere.

Lawmakers Push for Strong Controls

The proposed law aims to sharply limit access for high-risk groups. It also introduces firm rules that could reshape user behavior. At the center of the plan is a mandatory self-ban system — strict and long-term. 

Users would be able to block themselves from all online casinos. Once activated, the ban would last five years with no early exit. After that period, it may extend automatically for another five years. The restriction would apply across all licensed casinos, not just one. Officials argue this measure targets those unable to stop on their own. 

Targeting Vulnerable Groups

The bill goes further by limiting access for financially exposed citizens. Several groups may face full restrictions under the proposed rules:

• People receiving social support payments from the state

• Citizens whose main income comes from pensions

• Individuals involved in bankruptcy or debt procedures

• Participants in state-funded subsidy programs

In addition, a spending cap may apply to all users. The law proposes a limit set at 20 percent of declared income. Hence, lawmakers appear focused on reducing harm before it escalates further. The approach mixes social policy with financial control — a careful balance.

Delays and a Planned Rollout

The proposal has not yet passed its first reading in parliament. Lawmakers delayed the vote to revise details and improve the draft. Nevertheless, the direction remains clear — stricter oversight is coming. 

Officials plan to introduce a central oversight system for casino operators. This system could begin forming as early as mid-2026. Full enforcement is expected to begin on January 1, 2027. That timeline gives operators time to adjust systems and comply.