Georgia's Strategic Location Creates a Powerful Junket Opportunity
October 29, 2026
Georgia's gaming industry has entered a potentially transformative new phase following the approval of legislation allowing licensed casinos to host international gambling tournaments. Combined with tax incentives for large-scale events and Georgia's strategic location between Europe, the Middle East, Israel, and Central Asia, the new framework could significantly enhance the country's appeal as a casino tourism destination and create fresh opportunities for investors seeking casino assets in one of the region's fastest-evolving gaming markets.
Georgia Approves International Casino Tournament Legislation
The latest catalyst behind growing investor interest in Georgia's gaming sector is the recent approval of legislation allowing licensed casinos to host international gambling tournaments.
The law was approved by Georgia's parliament with a substantial majority and is specifically designed to attract foreign visitors, increase tourism spending, and encourage the development of large-scale international gaming events.
Under the legislation:
- Casinos can organize qualifying international gambling tournaments.
- At least 80% of tournament participants must be foreign nationals.
- Casinos hosting qualifying tournaments with guaranteed prize pools exceeding GEL 3 million (approximately €1 million) can benefit from exemptions from certain gaming table business fees.
- Foreign players participating in qualifying tournaments with prize pools above GEL 3 million can receive tax exemptions on tournament winnings.
- Tournament events may be hosted at licensed casino premises and approved external venues.
For casino operators, these measures create new opportunities to develop internationally recognised poker festivals, VIP gaming events, premium junket programmes, and destination-based casino tourism.
Why Investors Should Pay Attention
While many jurisdictions continue to tighten gaming regulations, Georgia has introduced targeted incentives aimed at attracting international gaming visitors and encouraging operator investment.
The legislation effectively provides three important advantages:
1. Increased International Footfall
The requirement that at least 80% of participants be foreign nationals ensures the initiative remains focused on attracting tourism revenue rather than domestic gaming activity.