Zambia proposes 10% excise duty on betting amounts in 2025 budget

The Zambian government has announced a proposal for a 10% excise duty on betting amounts as part of its 2025 budget. Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane made this announcement during his presentation to Parliament on September 28, 2024.

Under the proposed excise duty, 10% will be deducted from every wager placed. For example, if a bettor stakes K100, only K90 will be available for the bet, with K10 going to the government as tax. Additionally, if the bet wins, the government will collect an extra 15% of the winnings.

Gambling in Zambia encompasses legal activities such as lotteries, sports betting, and casino operations, all regulated by specific laws. The industry is overseen by various regulatory bodies, including the Lotteries Control Board and the Betting Control and Licensing Board, under the governance of the Lotteries Act and the Betting Control Act.