Casinos to provide 28,000 jobs in north Cyprus: TRNC Minister of Economy promises

The TRNC ‘Economy Minister’ Olgun Amcaoğlu announced Thursday evening that the recent easing of casino regulations is expected to generate "at least 28,000 new jobs."

Speaking on Kıbrıs Postası TV, Amcaoğlu said the ruling coalition is likely to approve permits for the opening of 32 new casinos.

“With these new permits, we anticipate the creation of no fewer than 28,000 jobs. Currently, the tourism sector employs around 40,000 people. This number will increase substantially, offering a significant economic opportunity for the country,” he said.

Drawing comparisons with Malta, Amcaoğlu highlighted the importance of the service sector in island economies, stressing the need for the north to adopt a similar model.

“In many island nations like Malta, the service industry forms the backbone of economic growth. We should move forward by learning from such examples. Casinos are an integral part of this sector,” he said.

The region’s ‘parliament’ voted in the early hours of Tuesday to relax several restrictions governing casinos. Key changes include the removal of limits on the number of casino permits issued and their proximity to urban centers. Casinos will now be allowed as close as 100 meters from schools.

Additionally, the previous ban on Turkish Cypriots entering casinos has been reduced to a civil offense, now punishable by a fine of up to €50. Meanwhile, the minimum number of hotel beds required for casino operations has increased from 500 to 750.

The decision sparked heated debate, with opposition members expressing strong disapproval.

Fikri Toros, a ‘MP’ from the opposition CTP party, acknowledged the economic benefits of casinos but warned of their social costs.

“The contribution of casinos to the economy is undeniable,” he said, “but they also bring serious issues like gambling addiction and rising criminal activity.”

Toros also criticized the downgrading of the casino entry ban for Turkish Cypriots, calling it “unacceptable” that the restriction can now be bypassed for a symbolic €50.

“This effectively encourages citizens to gamble,” he said.

Another CTP member, Doğuş Derya, warned that the new law could reinforce the north’s image as a haven for money laundering.

“Turkey is subject to international oversight because it's a recognized state. This region, however, falls outside international law. Are casinos, like offshore banks, becoming tools for laundering illicit money?” she asked.

“Do we really want to be known globally for drugs, human trafficking, and money laundering? Who are the forces behind these legal changes?”

CTP’s Salahi Şahiner also voiced concern over the provision allowing casinos near schools.

“Are you trying to turn children into gamblers? You're allowing casinos just 100 meters away from schools,” he said.