Senegal Proposes 20% Tax on Gambling Winnings and Operator Profits

Senegal’s government has introduced Draft Law No. 17/2025, which seeks to impose a 20% tax on both gambling winnings and operator profits, potentially reshaping the country’s regulated betting market.

The proposed tax would apply to all forms of gambling, including sports betting, lotteries, and casino games. Under the bill, players would face a 20% withholding tax on winnings, while operators would contribute 20% of their gross revenue to the state.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the measure aims to boost national tax revenues and improve transparency in the gaming sector, aligning with recent digital finance reforms. The explanatory note accompanying the bill highlights the need to formalize payment channels and limit untracked cash transactions.

If adopted, the law would significantly reduce player payouts and increase fiscal pressure on operators. Industry analysts warn that such taxation could discourage participation in the licensed market and push some bettors toward offshore or unregulated platforms.

In addition to gambling-related taxes, Draft Law No. 17/2025 also introduces a 0.5% levy on mobile money transfers and a 1% stamp duty on cash payments, as part of a broader package of financial reforms.

The bill has been submitted to Senegal’s National Assembly and awaits parliamentary debate and presidential assent before taking effect.