Scrapping betting tax is a wrong move – ISSER to government

Professor Peter Quartey, Executive Director of ISSER, has criticized the government's decision to scrap the betting tax, arguing that the revenue should instead be directed toward youth development programs.

Speaking at a post-budget review in Accra, he highlighted the inconsistency of reintroducing road tolls, which generate GH₵72 million, while removing the betting tax, which brings in GH₵140 million.

He questioned the rationale behind this move, asserting that betting constitutes income and should be taxed. Quartey also warned against the growing perception of betting as employment, urging the government to use the revenue for sustainable youth initiatives.

His remarks follow Finance Minister Dr. Ato Forson’s announcement in the 2025 budget that the government would eliminate certain "nuisance" taxes, including the 10% withholding tax on betting winnings.