Ghana Repeals 10% Tax on Gambling Wins

Did you hear Ghana just scrapped its 10% tax on betting and lottery winnings? President John Dramani Mahama’s signature overturns a controversial measure, raising both industry hopes and public concerns. You want a balanced, thriving market. But will this repeal spark innovation or inflate problem gambling risks? Keep reading to learn how this bold policy shift could reshape Ghana’s gambling landscape and the wider economy.

Ghana Abolishes 10% Gambling Tax: Will This Bold Move Ignite Economic Growth or Fuel Gambling Risks?

3 Key Points

1. Tax Repeal Sparks Fiscal Debate. Critics fear revenue shortfalls, with a potential GHS6.4bn loss amid economic recovery efforts.

2. Operators See Opportunity. Betting companies ramp up promotions, boosting consumer interest while critics warn of social costs.

3. Calls for Responsible Regulation. Public health advocates urge safeguards, highlighting the risk of incentivizing excessive gambling.

Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has officially repealed the 10% tax on betting and lottery winnings. The move comes less than two years after the original policy took effect in August 2023. This repeal marks a significant change in Ghana’s gambling framework.

The government introduced the now-scrapped tax to raise revenue and curb rising gambling participation. It imposed a 10% withholding tax on all gambling winnings above the original stake. At the time, officials cited concerns about gambling addiction among young people. They saw the tax as a deterrent against compulsive play.

However, the new administration under Mahama chose to shift direction. Last month, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson announced the repeal alongside other levies, such as the e-levy and Covid-19 levy, during the 2025 national budget presentation. He argued these tax cuts would ease financial burdens on households and stimulate economic growth. The government’s goal is to increase disposable income, foster investment, and bolster consumer spending.

This policy reversal was not welcomed by everyone. The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) fears a substantial fiscal impact. Its analysts warn that removing the betting tax could widen Ghana’s budget deficit and undermine post-pandemic recovery efforts. A KPMG study estimates a combined revenue loss of GHS6.4bn (€369.6m) from the removal of the betting tax, the e-levy, and the Covid-19 levy. That figure is considerable for an economy grappling with public debt challenges.

Critics also highlight the risk of encouraging excessive gambling. With no tax on winnings, some worry that more people—particularly younger players—will gamble frequently. Ghana’s betting industry has grown rapidly thanks to online platforms and sports betting popularity. Without a regulatory safety net, many experts fear addiction rates could surge, creating long-term social costs.

Even so, industry stakeholders are optimistic. Major betting operators plan to expand their presence in Ghana. Several companies have launched marketing campaigns, offering special incentives like no-deposit bonuses. They hope to attract newcomers and foster player loyalty. Observers note that these promotions sometimes target vulnerable demographics, making the situation more complex.

Proponents of the repeal believe Ghana can balance growth with responsibility if proper regulations follow. They argue that removing the betting tax will attract investment, create jobs, and boost consumer spending across multiple sectors. Yet, the government has not announced any detailed plan to monitor or mitigate potential harm. Public health advocates are calling for preventive measures, including better education about gambling risks, mandatory identification checks, and robust self-exclusion mechanisms.

The shift in policy also raises questions about Ghana’s broader economic strategy. Mahama’s decision overturns a measure enacted by his predecessor, Nana Akufo-Addo. The current president is the first in Ghana to serve a second non-consecutive term, signaling a dynamic political climate. His administration positions this tax repeal as part of a wider agenda to enhance tax compliance and promote private sector growth. Whether these moves succeed depends on effective coordination between the government, betting operators, and civil society.

For now, gamblers can rejoice at the absence of the 10% deduction from their winnings. However, concerns linger about the lost revenue and potential social consequences. Many eyes remain fixed on Ghana’s leadership to see whether new regulations will soon follow. The country’s gambling landscape stands on a tipping point, where opportunity and risk coexist.

The repeal of Ghana’s 10% betting and lottery winnings tax has ignited significant debate. Government officials tout it as a step toward economic stimulation, while critics warn of revenue losses and gambling addiction. Observers now wait for further policy details to see if Ghana can balance industry growth, fiscal stability, and social responsibility in this rapidly evolving sector.