YEREVAN.- Amendments to the law on casinos and gambling in Armenia will come into effect from January 1, 2013.

According to the amendment, casinos and gambling halls can function only in the territory of resort towns of Tsakhkadzor, Sevan and Jermuk, as well as nearby Zvartnots airport and “Yerevan” free trade zone. 

Minister of Finance Vache Gabrielyan introduced amendments providing that casinos and gambling halls should be located 500 meters (0.3 mile) away from schools, cultural and historical monuments, state buildings and hospitals, to be confirmed by the government.

Besides, casino should be located in the territory of at least 250 square meters, whereas a gambling halls in at least 100 square meters.

Eighty-four gambling, 10 casinos and 3 lotteries’ licenses have been issued in Armenia as of August 1, said the Finance Ministry.