Zambia Revenue Authority Flags June Tax Obligations for Betting Sector

Zambia’s betting and gaming operators are facing another important compliance window in June, as the Zambia Revenue Authority continues to enforce monthly tax deadlines for the sector.

The Zambia Revenue Authority has reminded betting and gaming operators of their June tax obligations as the regulator continues to tighten compliance across the gambling sector.

For licensed operators, the key monthly requirements include presumptive tax on gaming and betting businesses and the 10% excise duty on betting stakes. Under ZRA guidance, presumptive tax returns and payments for gaming and betting are due by the 14th day of the month following the relevant tax period. The 10% excise duty on betting services must be computed and remitted by the 15th day of each month, based on the total amount staked in the previous period.

The June compliance window is important because it shows that Zambia’s betting tax framework is moving from policy debate into routine enforcement. Operators are expected to calculate their liabilities, file returns and remit payments on time, with late or incomplete compliance potentially exposing businesses to penalties and interest.

The 10% betting excise duty has been one of the most closely watched tax measures in Zambia’s gambling market. It was introduced as part of the government’s wider revenue mobilisation strategy and applies to betting stakes, with operators responsible for collecting and remitting the duty to ZRA. The measure has previously faced resistance from some operators, but tax authorities have continued to enforce the monthly payment schedule.

Beyond the monthly obligations, betting companies also need to monitor broader tax changes taking effect in 2026. Zambia’s 1% Minimum Alternative Tax on annual turnover may affect companies with high revenue but low taxable profits, including betting and gaming businesses where applicable. This creates an additional compliance consideration for operators that process large betting volumes while reporting relatively narrow margins.

For the industry, ZRA’s continued focus on deadlines sends a clear message: betting and gaming are becoming a more closely monitored part of Zambia’s formal tax base. Stronger enforcement may increase administrative pressure on operators, but it could also create a more predictable regulatory environment for licensed businesses.

As Zambia’s gambling market develops, tax compliance is likely to remain a central part of the government’s approach. The June deadlines underline that operators will need reliable reporting systems, accurate transaction records and stronger internal controls if they want to avoid penalties and maintain confidence with both regulators and players.