Recently, there has been a noticeable increase in illegal raffles on social media. As noted by Sairov, so-called coach-influencers are selling tickets and receipts, organizing lottery games under the guise of selling travel packages, electronics, cars, and other valuable items.
“Such giveaways, as they are commonly referred to, are considered dubious actions and are illegal. Over the past year, 106 cases of illegal lottery organization and prize raffles have been identified.
Violators have been fined a total of 46 million tenge. Illegal lottery activities on social media remain at a high level,” the deputy remarked.
Another significant issue, according to Sairov, is the portrayal of a lavish lifestyle by bloggers, which creates an illusion of easy earnings without hard work in society.
“Some of them continuously showcase a luxurious lifestyle on social media, posting photos of expensive villas, supercars, and other symbols of wealth, while instilling in society the notion that one can earn effortlessly.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance has legitimate questions regarding the payment of corresponding taxes by these individuals. Everyone must pay taxes. The law is strict, but this law applies to all citizens,” the deputy emphasized.
He also reminded that in several countries, bloggers are required to pay taxes on the income they generate from their activities. For instance, in the USA, the UK, and China, tax rates for content creators can reach up to 40%.
What measures are being proposed?
In his request, the deputy suggested:
- To organize extensive educational work among bloggers about the necessity of complying with the legislation.
- To develop clear criteria for classifying influencers' incomes as entrepreneurial activities.
- To enhance control over illegal prize raffles on social media.
“In our challenging times, we all must be allies of our state,” Sairov emphasized.
According to the law on online platforms, influencers generating income are required to register as entrepreneurs and label advertisements. Authorities intend to strengthen the enforcement of these requirements.