Economics and statistics

The legal proceeds of Syria's gambling sector consist solely of the state lottery; there are no licensed casinos or bookmakers, so there are no corresponding taxes or license fees.

The volume of lottery sales is volatile and depends on macro conditions and the purchasing power of the population.

The state has to bear the constant costs of law enforcement: blocking sites, suppressing payments, raids and confiscations. "Gambling" demand partially goes offshore and neighboring jurisdictions, which reduces the potential tax base and increases the risks for citizens.

Official statistics for the sector are limited and irregular; the basic trend is the preservation of a narrow legal niche (lottery) with zero casino revenue and priority of control measures.