Ghana’s Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has confirmed government will abolish the 10% betting tax.
Ato Forson announced on the parliament floor today, Tuesday, March 11, 2025, during the 2025 budget reading, that his administration will scrap the 10% betting tax, stating
“We will abolish the 10% withholding tax on winnings from lottery, otherwise known as the ‘Betting Tax’”.
The betting tax was introduced by former President Nana Addo Dankwah Akuffo Addo, requiring betting winners to pay a 10% tax on their winnings.
The issue of betting taxation became a pivotal topic during the recent 2024 elections, where a substantial number of Ghana’s youth rallied behind President John Mahama. Many voters viewed the ten percent tax as an exploitative measure, arguing that it unfairly targeted their primary source of income amid rising unemployment rates.
The NDC’s promise to abolish the betting tax was a key factor in mobilizing the youth vote, reflecting a desire for economic relief and more favorable policies.
In addition to the betting tax, the E-levy, Covid tax, and emission levy have all been abolished.
The Ajumako Enyan Esiam MP’s pledge to abolish the betting tax is expected to resonate with many young Ghanaians who rely on gambling as a viable source of income, particularly in a tough job market where employment opportunities are scarce.
Meanwhile, the government faces a potential revenue loss of GH¢1.2 billion in 2025 if the betting tax is repealed.
