Tanzania proposes 10% excise tax on betting, gambling, and National Lottery to fund universal health coverage

Tanzania's Minister for Finance, Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, has introduced a proposal to impose a 10% excise duty on betting, gaming, and national lottery stakes. The revenue generated from this tax will be ring-fenced for the Universal Health Insurance Fund, aiming to enhance healthcare accessibility for individuals who cannot afford it.

Dr. Nchemba presented this proposal during the National Budget presentation for 2024/2025 at the National Assembly in Dodoma. The move is intended to bolster government revenue for financing Universal Health Coverage, ultimately improving healthcare services for those in need.

The proposal is based on the current regulatory framework, which is governed by the Gambling Act of 2003. The Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT) is responsible for issuing licenses for various gambling activities, including casinos, lotteries, sports betting, and online casinos or sports betting.