Authorities in Kazakhstan's Almaty region are moving forward with plans to establish a new gambling zone in the Talgar District exclusively for foreign visitors after the proposal received backing from the Public Council.
Konayev, the region's existing casino hub, is currently home to 21 licensed gambling venues, including five casinos, 13 bookmakers and three slot machine halls. The sector also employs around 2,500 people.
Regional authorities said the gambling industry continues to play an important role in tourism development. Official figures show that legal gambling businesses in the region generated KZT 25bn ($52.5m) in tax revenue during the first six months of 2026, with KZT 10.6bn allocated to the regional budget.
According to Kuanyshbek Mirambekuly, Head of the Tourism Department, international casino visitors also deliver wider economic benefits by spending on accommodation, restaurants, transport, retail and other local services, supporting small and medium-sized businesses while creating additional employment.
Officials said Talgar was selected because of its strong tourism potential and its proximity to both Almaty and the city's international airport. The District is home to several established tourism destinations, including the Akbulak Sports and Recreation Complex, the Oi-Qaragai Ski Resort, Aquaasia Resort and the Tal Resort recreation area.
Regional authorities believe the new gambling zone would complement the area's existing tourism infrastructure while encouraging further investment.
In February, President Tokayev signed a law establishing four new gambling zones in the country. In addition to the existing zones in Kapchagay and Burabay, new gambling areas may be created in the Mangystau, Zhetysu, Almaty and East Kazakhstan regions.
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports anticipates that the influx of foreign gambling visitors will double once new casinos open in four regions of the country
