Zambia engages betting operators after rollout of 10 % excise tax prompts operational suspensions

On 4 November 2025 the Zambian government initiated direct talks with betting companies following the introduction of a 10 % excise duty on betting stakes, amid reports that some operators have suspended or scaled back operations.

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, led by Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane, have begun consultations with major betting firms after the excise tax took effect, and several operators temporarily halted or reduced operations in response.

Dr Musokotwane explained that the tax, introduced under the amended Customs & Excise Act’s gaming-levy provisions, is intended to raise revenue and curb social harms linked to gambling rather than to disrupt the industry.

Operators such as Betway and BetPawa are reported to have scaled back activities in Zambia, citing the 10 % stake levy as financially unsustainable without further clarity and engagement.

From a business and regulatory perspective the talks mark a critical moment for the Zambian betting sector. Operators now face a tax-environment shift, forcing review of pricing, risk management and licence-cost modelling. Meanwhile regulators must balance revenue targets, industry viability and consumer protection. The government says it remains open to stakeholder feedback and may adjust implementation modalities to protect both the national treasury and the industry’s sustainability.