The Association of the Gaming and Entertainment Industry (AIRI) has been established in Kyrgyzstan, bringing together licensed casinos, bookmakers and lottery companies under a single industry body for the first time.
The newly formed association aims to represent the interests of the country's legal gambling sector while fostering cooperation between regulators, operators and other stakeholders as Kyrgyzstan continues to develop its regulated gaming market.
AIRI's creation marks a milestone for the industry following the legalisation of casino operations for foreign visitors. The organisation will focus on promoting transparent business practices, supporting legislative development and encouraging the adoption of international regulatory standards.
Despite its recent launch, AIRI has already joined several of Kyrgyzstan's leading associations. These include the National Alliance of Business Associations (NABA), the Chamber of Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Business Development Council under the Cabinet of Ministers.
The association is also working towards signing a memorandum of cooperation with the Financial Market Regulation and Supervision Service (Finnadzor).
Speaking about the industry's development, AIRI President Kanykei Kalmatai Kyzy said public perceptions of gambling are often shaped by outdated views that no longer reflect the current regulatory environment.
She noted that casinos in Kyrgyzstan operate exclusively for foreign citizens under existing legislation and are subject to licensing requirements, financial monitoring, tax obligations, anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regulations.
According to Kalmatai Kyzy, the modern legal gambling industry should be evaluated based on its current compliance standards rather than historical stereotypes.
Following a 10-year ban, Kyrgyzstan casino and other licensed gambling activities in 2022, with participation restricted exclusively to foreign nationals
