Kazakhstan’s regulated betting sector faced a significant downturn in the first half of 2026, with user engagement dropping nearly 70%. A recent report from Blask attributes this decline to new regulatory changes that disrupted payment processing for licensed operators in the industry.
The introduction of the Unified Betting Accounting System (ESU) and the mandatory adoption of NomadPay particularly rattled the market. Many betting establishments struggled to comply with the new legislation, resulting in banks suspending deposits and withdrawals for numerous licensed players. This situation led some gamblers to turn to unlicensed options as law enforcement started to actively enforce the new regulations.
These payment system reforms are part of a broader initiative by the government aimed at reinforcing the gambling industry and enhancing associated regulatory measures. Authorities have expanded self-exclusion options, tightened oversight of illegal gambling transactions, and implemented stricter compliance requirements. Additionally, financial controls within the sector have been heightened.
Despite the downturn, betting remains the most favored form of gambling in Kazakhstan. The country continues to regulate gambling activities under the Gambling Law, which was updated in May 2026. The most recent amendments mandate that licensed bookmakers handle electronic bets and payouts via a central accounting system, enabling authorities to track transactions, verify player identities, and identify unlicensed gambling sites.
