UK Confirms Higher Taxes on Online Gambling in Budget Overhaul
The UK government will increase taxes on online gambling, excluding horse racing and bingo, to generate over GBP 1 billion for public funds.Summary
The UK government has announced significant tax increases for online gambling companies as part of its latest Budget, following months of pressure from MPs and the Treasury Committee. The new system aims to generate over GBP 1 billion for public funds by applying higher taxes to digital gambling while protecting traditional forms like horse racing and bingo. Starting April 1, 2026, the tax on online gaming will rise from 21% to 40%, and in April 2027, the tax on remote betting will increase from 15% to 25%. Horse racing bets and land-based gambling will maintain their current rates, and bingo halls will be exempt from bingo duty. This decision is based on concerns about the social impact of online gambling and its rapid growth, with the Treasury Committee previously dismissing arguments that online betting causes no social issues. Meg Hillier, head of the Treasury Committee, praised the move as a realistic approach to addressing the harms associated with online gambling.
(Source：Gamblingnews)