Scrapping the Betting Tax and related matters

Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson has announced the government’s decision to scrap the withholding tax on betting winnings in its 2025 budget.

The 10% tax, reintroduced in 2023, sparked public uproar but failed to curb betting activity, as demand for betting remains inelastic.

While the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) collected GH¢140 million from the tax in 2024, enforcement challenges and tax avoidance by betting companies have rendered it ineffective.

The rise of unregulated online betting platforms (black sites) further complicates regulation.

Experts argue that instead of taxation on winnings, the government should strengthen regulatory oversight, ensure proper monitoring of the Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) tax, and establish a responsible gaming fund.

With global trends favoring regulation over prohibition, Ghana must adapt to maintain industry integrity and revenue sustainability.