The Budget and Finance Committee reviewed and supported, under an expedited second reading, the proposed amendments to the Tax Code. The draft law introduces new regulations for the gambling and tobacco industries - revenues/profits earned by slot machine hall operators and/or organizers of system-based electronic gambling will be taxed at 20%, up from the current rate of 15%.

However, dividends paid by these entities will no longer be subject to taxation; excise rates on certain tobacco products will increase by 15-20 tetri per unit.

The draft law was introduced by MPs Paata Kvizhinadze, Irakli Kirtskhalia, Irakli Zarkua, Ramina Beradze, and Irakli Kheladze.

The committee unanimously supported the legislative changes, advancing them for further consideration in a plenary session.