Azerbaijan is located in the southeastern part of Transcaucasus. Officially renamed the Republic of Azerbaijan on February 6, 1991, it gained independence on October 18, 1991. Over the past few years, the trends of sports betting and betting sites in Azerbaijan have rapidly increased all over the globe. Understanding the legal framework of the gambling in Azerbaijan may be quite difficult. In this guide, you will discover the history of betting, legal framework, and the current situation of betting in Azerbaijan to help you understand this industry.
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Table of Contents
Summary of Key Events
Overview of Gambling Laws in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijani’s approach to gambling has always been quite complicated. Since the country got its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the country has experienced the development of gambling activities.
- 1991 – 1997: Gambling was allowed and there was the emergence of many casinos.
- 1998: It was accompanied by a major scandal that resulted in a complete prohibition of almost all types of gambling.
- 2001: The state owned company Azerlotereya OJSC was set up to govern the lottery business.
- 2011: Sports betting were again legalized but this time it was to be done under the state’s supervision.
Authorities of Betting Sites in Azerbaijan
The regulation of the gambling business in Azerbaijan is carried out by several government agencies. These organizations regulate everything from the issuance of licenses to adherence to the law, to guarantee that the industry is legal.
- Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan: Azerlotereya OJSC and Caspiantech CJSC is licensed and supervised by the Company.
- Azerlotereya OJSC: State owned lottery is among the responsibilities of the entity.
- Caspiantech CJSC: Topaz brand under which they handle sports betting.
These agencies combine to ensure that gambling is kept regulated and as far as possible, honest.
Prohibited and Permitted Bets
It is essential to know the kinds of bets that one can place and the ones that are unlawful in Azerbaijan to anyone who wishes to participate in gambling.
Permitted Bets
- Sports Betting: Legal and being provided by Caspiantech CJSC.
- Lottery: Azerbaijan State Electricity Company. ;Managed by Azerlotereya OJSC.
- Bingo: Also belongs to Azerlotereya OJSC.
Prohibited Bets
- Casinos: None of the forms of casino gambling are still allowed.
- Unlicensed Online Betting: Some of the foreign lottery and sports betting websites are banned.
Gambling Licenses and Fees
Getting a gambling license is still a big achievement in Azerbaijan. The Ministry of Economy controls the licensing of the markets, however, other companies do not often receive new licenses. Below are the fees and taxes associated with gambling:
License Types and Fees
- Sports Betting License: To Caspiantech CJSC.
- Lottery License: Literation by Azerlotereya OJSC.
Gambling Taxes
- Participants Tax: It is 6_percent of the gross receipts.
- Sellers Tax: As much as four percent of the gross commission earned.
- Tax on Legal Entities and Sole Traders: 1% on withrawals by cash.
Please remember that these are gambling taxes and corporate taxes are also paid which are 20%.
Best Betting Sites in Azerbaijan
Nonetheless, there are many betting sites that are legal in Azerbaijan and they provide a vast choice of options for the sports fans.
Top Betting Sites
Melbet
Melbet: It has a lot of sports to choose from and has a rather large bonus of up to 100 AZN for new clients.
Bet £30 Get £30
Megapari
Megapari: It offers very competitive odds and has a rather simple and easy to use website. New customers can get up to 50 AZN as a free bet.
Up To £100 + 15% Free Bets
Betwinner
Betwinner: Although mainly concentrating on football, Betwinner has a welcome bonus of up to 200 AZN.
Up To £100
Great moments in the history of sports betting.
The market of sports betting in Azerbaijan can be characterized by some significant events that have influenced its current condition. All these have unique consequences on the control of betting and its acceptance in the nation.
- 1991-1997: Gambling in the immediate years after independence was the golden age of gambling.
- 1998: Large gambling scandal resulting in the prohibition of most types of gambling activities.
- 2001: Formation of Azerlotereya OJSC.
- 2011: Legalisation of sports betting.
- 2021: Supplements to the law “On Telecommunications” on the prohibition of access to unauthorised betting websites.
Sports Star Glory
This paper aims at identifying some of the world class athletes that Azerbaijan has produced to showcase its talent. These sport stars have not only made their mark in the sports but have also paved way for the young sport stars.
Notable Athletes
- Farid Mansurov: Wrestling, Olympic gold medal – 1996, 2000.
- Teymur Mammadov: A member of the Olympic team in boxing and clinching the gold medal in the year 2004.
- Elnur Mammadli: Currently, she is an Olympic gold medal holder in judo (2008).
Azerbaijan’s Sporting Achievements
- Football: It also had the privilege of hosting the 2012 FIFA U-17 women football championship.
- Martial Arts: Judo, boxing, and wrestling: medals.
Gambling Laws in Neighboring Countries
Knowing the legal frameworks of gambling in the neighboring countries could be helpful. Here’s a brief overview:
Georgia
- Legalized Gambling: Specific rules and strong development of the casino business.
- Online Betting: Indeed, it is legal and fully regulated.
Turkey
- Limited Legal Gambling: It is legal to only bet on sports through state regulated channels and play lottery.
- Casinos: Banned since 1998.
Iran
- Strict Prohibition: None of the forms of gambling are allowed.
Conclusion
The sports betting and gambling industry of Azerbaijan is a rather interesting mix of history, legal frameworks, and prospects. From its golden age in the ‘90s to the present day, when the industry is gradually being observed, it has changed a lot. To learn the principles, to know the authorities, and to select the trustworthy platforms – this way you will be able to have fun and bet in Azerbaijan without breaking the law.
FAQ on Betting Sites in Azerbaijan
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