Government to Abolish 10% Betting Tax – Finance Minister Ato Forson
Ghana’s Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced that the government will abolish the 10% withholding tax on lottery winnings, commonly known as the betting tax.
The controversial betting tax, which was introduced in 2023, sparked widespread debate, particularly among the youth and stakeholders in the gaming industry, who argued that it negatively impacted earnings and participation.
Speaking during the 2025 Budget presentation in Parliament, Dr. Forson stated that the removal of the tax aims to ease financial burdens on households while also fostering business growth.
“Mr. Speaker, we will abolish the 10% withholding tax on winnings from lotteries, otherwise known as the betting tax. The removal of this tax will ease the burden on households and improve their disposable incomes. In addition, it will support business growth,” he declared.
With this policy reversal, the government expects to provide financial relief to individuals engaged in lottery and sports betting while also encouraging further investment in the gaming sector.
The Finance Minister did not specify when the tax removal will take effect, but the move is expected to be welcomed by bettors, gaming companies, and economic analysts who had previously criticized the levy.
