KATHMANDU: The government has issued a set of 12 directives aimed at bringing casinos—an important commercial entertainment sector—under stricter legal regulation.
The Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation has stressed that all operating casinos must fully comply with the Anti-Money Laundering Act and its related provisions.
It reiterated that casino operators must adhere to both the newly issued directives and existing guidelines on preventing money laundering and the financing of terrorist activities.
The Department reminded operators that foreign currency transactions cannot be conducted without obtaining authorization from Nepal Rastra Bank. Details required under the Casino Regulations, 2082, as well as those specified in the anti–money laundering instructions for casino operators, must be submitted to the department on a regular basis.
Casinos are required to maintain updated customer identification systems and biometric records of players, which must be provided to the department upon request. CCTV footage covering all activities within casino premises must be stored for at least six months.
The directive also prohibits casinos from being operated through third-party agreements or from functioning at locations other than those for which licenses have been issued.
Before paying out winnings, casinos must deduct the applicable incidental profit tax in accordance with current law. After deducting the tax, licensed companies must obtain a withholding certificate from the player, submit the details to the relevant Inland Revenue Office immediately, and notify the Department.
In addition, operating any internet-based or online gaming activities is strictly prohibited. Casinos must ensure adequate security within the premises and surrounding areas.
The Department has also warned that if casino operations are found non-compliant during risk-based monitoring under the Nepal Grey List, 2082, immediate legal action will be taken.
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