The legislative proposal, introduced by Rafael Gevorgyan, Deputy Chairman of the State Revenue Committee (SRC), addresses two operational issues that emerged following the passage of Armenia’s 2024 gambling law. That legislation established a competitive tender process to select a single central monitoring operator responsible for overseeing all gambling activity within Armenian jurisdiction.
Digital Platform for Real-Time Activity Tracking
The proposed monitoring operator would manage a digital platform designed to track all gambling transactions across Armenia’s land-based casinos and online gambling services. According to government officials, the system would record each wager in real time, providing the SRC with direct access to comprehensive data on betting volumes and revenue generation.
The primary objective centers on improving tax compliance by ensuring reported income aligns with actual gambling activity. Gevorgyan stated that the first amendment clarifies the appeals process related to operator selection. The competitive tender launched in 2024, with the initial phase completed and the process currently in its second stage. Proponents argue that clearer procedural rules are necessary to prevent disputes that could disrupt the selection timeline.
Procedural Protections Against Implementation Delays
The second component of the bill proposes amendments to Armenia’s Civil Procedure Code that would prevent court actions from suspending or delaying the appointment of the monitoring operator. Supporters contend the measure is necessary to avoid interruptions that could leave the sector without unified regulatory oversight. However, some observers have raised concerns that limiting the impact of legal challenges could restrict legitimate avenues for legal recourse.
The legislation has generated debate within parliament. Hayk Sargsyan, a member of the ruling Civil Contract party, recently criticized delays in implementing the 2024 reforms, referencing a directive from the Prime Minister calling for expedited action by state agencies. Sargsyan’s remarks during a parliamentary session were cut short before he could complete his critique.
Market Growth Drives Regulatory Push
Economic factors appear to be motivating the government’s regulatory efforts. The Blask Index projects Armenia’s gambling market will reach approximately $25 million by January 2026, representing growth from $23.8 million in February 2025. While the increase is incremental, it reflects sustained activity and market expansion.
Tax policy has evolved alongside regulatory measures. Parliament recently increased gambling tax rates, with certain levies now doubled from previous levels. Government officials maintain that enhanced oversight combined with higher taxation will improve revenue collection and increase industry transparency.
Social Considerations and Addiction Concerns
Beyond fiscal considerations, social risks associated with gambling expansion are also under discussion. Research indicates that two to three percent of gamblers in Armenia experience addiction-related issues. The rapid growth of online gambling platforms has intensified these concerns, with the number of active players more than doubling between 2018 and 2020, significantly expanding access and associated risk factors.
The amendments currently before parliament represent an effort to consolidate regulatory authority during a period of sector expansion. The legislative outcome will determine whether the proposed framework achieves an appropriate balance between administrative efficiency and legal protections as the bill advances through the parliamentary process.
Source: State Revenue Committee of Armenia
