Uganda- The Uganda gambling tax will now apply to winnings from licensed land-based casinos after Parliament adopted President Yoweri Museveni’s recommendations.
Lawmakers removed a proposed exemption that would have excluded casino winnings from withholding tax.
The decision strengthens fairness across sports betting and wider online gambling markets.
Uganda Gambling Tax Ensures Equal Treatment
Parliament said the amendment ensures equal tax treatment across all betting and gaming activities.
The original Bill proposed a withholding tax but excluded land-based casino winnings.
President Museveni rejected the exemption, citing risks of tax avoidance and revenue loss.
Lawmakers agreed the exemption would create an uneven playing field across similar gaming activities.
Revenue Protection and Policy Direction
The amendment is expected to protect about Shs65bn in projected government revenue.
Officials said the revised framework supports transparency and compliance across the gaming sector.
Finance Minister Henry Musasizi backed the move, describing it as the right policy direction.
Broader Impact on Betting and Gaming Industry
Under the new rules, casino winnings will now be taxed alongside other betting activities.
However, winnings from Uganda’s national lottery remain exempt from withholding tax.
The Uganda gambling tax reform reflects growing efforts to regulate both land-based and digital markets.
This includes oversight of emerging segments such as esports betting odds and digital betting platforms.
The Bill now awaits presidential assent before becoming law.
See also…
https://afriplayhub.com/2026/08/05/ghana-delays-digital-lottery-transition/
