Georgia's New Bill for International Poker Tournaments Boosts Tourism

Expanding International Tournaments Under New Regulation

The Georgian Parliament has taken a significant step toward expanding the country's gaming and tourism landscape by passing a new bill at its first reading. The legislation amends the Law on Organising Lotteries, Gambling and Other Prize Games, establishing a formal regulatory framework for hosting major international poker competitions.

MP Shota Berekashvili, chair of Parliament’s Economic Policy Committee, spoke with the Georgian Public Broadcaster’s First Channel to explain the scope and strategic intent behind the regulatory update.

“The bill amending the Law on Organising Lotteries, Gambling and Other Prize Games will change the rules on holding international tournaments in Georgia and bring them under regulation,” Berekashvili stated.

Boosting Off-Season Tourism in Regions Like Adjara

A primary motivation behind the legislative initiative is to stimulate economic activity and maintain high tourist engagement during slower months. Traditionally, visitor numbers to Georgia decline significantly during the early months of the year.

According to Berekashvili, welcoming premier international events—similar to the European Poker Tour held across various European capitals—will help sustain tourism and hospitality in key regions during February, March, and April.

“The initiative aims to support the tourism sector during the off-season, when visitor numbers to Georgia typically decline. Holding such tournaments will help keep tourist activity high in tourist regions such as Adjara in February, March and April. All of this will have a positive effect on economic activity,” he added.

Key Regulatory Requirements and Caps

While the bill opens the door for high-profile international sporting competitions in poker, it introduces strict structural controls and safeguards.

Mandatory Foreign Representation: At least 70% of all tournament participants must be foreign nationals.

National Cap: Domestic representation from Georgia is strictly capped at a maximum of 30%.

Existing Restrictions Maintained: All current legal restrictions governing the broader gambling industry in Georgia remain firmly in force.

With the bill successfully clearing its first reading in Parliament, lawmakers and industry stakeholders anticipate further developments as the legislation progresses toward final approval.