betting tax – Adomonline.com

Betting tax was misused – Kofi Adams

Joseph Odotei — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 11:55:17 +0000

Sports Minister Kofi Adams says the scrapped betting tax could have been a major source of funding for Ghana’s sports development if it had been properly managed.

Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, he explained that although the idea behind the tax was good, it was poorly implemented and failed to support the sector.

“It would have been if, when they did that, it was being used for sports and not collecting it and using it for many other things that were unnecessary. We would not have had the kind of problem that we had,” he said.

Mr. Adams said a good policy becomes unpopular when executed without a clear purpose.

“When something is good and is done badly, it becomes difficult to immediately change it and say that, because you are having these good intentions, let’s just drift it that way. It doesn’t work that way,” he noted.

The Minister, however, said government is now pursuing a more structured and transparent alternative, a National Sports Fund, which will provide consistent support for the country’s sports industry.

“The government is introducing a Sports Fund that will provide us well-structured funding for sports. We do not have that currently. And because of it, our support for sporting activity has been very limited,” he explained.

Mr Adams said the fund will not rely on new taxes but on levies drawn from existing revenue sources.

“We are not introducing a tax, but since that already exists, we are putting some levies on it and taking a percentage of it. That’s all that we are going to do,” he said.

He clarified that the Finance Minister’s budget would not include any new sports tax.

“The bill that we have sent to Cabinet for approval, which is to be sent to Parliament, does not have any such provision of a new tax,” he said.

“If Parliament, in their wisdom, decides that they want to impose a tax to generate this fund, that will be Parliament’s decision, not what we are proposing now.”

Mr Adams added that the fund will initially raise modest amounts but will grow as data and compliance improve.

“I know initially it will not be much, but as it drives on and we begin to capture a lot of data, it will go into millions,” he said.

He said the fund will be used to develop sports infrastructure, support athlete training, and promote disciplines like football, athletics, boxing, volleyball, and hockey.

“The sports fund will support sports infrastructure. It will support the growth of, especially, key sports areas. Football is one of them. Athletics, I love athletics so much, but we have not funded it enough,” he said.

Mr. Adams said the fund will be managed by professionals, not politicians. “It’s not going to be free money that you just come and take without accounting for any improvement,” he emphasised.

“There will be fund managers who will manage that fund, not controlled by the political appointee, the minister.”

He concluded that with proper funding, Ghana can produce world-class athletes like the United Kingdom has done through its national sports financing model.

“We can also do that again. We can produce athletes that will go to the international level, compete, and win,” he said. “The only reason many of them have not reached there has been funding challenges.”

Source: Abubakar Ibrahim

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Full list of 8 bills Mahama has signed into law

Gertrude Okyere — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 18:24:12 +0000

President John Mahama on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, assented to eight amended bills that abolish the betting tax, E-Levy, emissions tax, and six levies.

Other bills include the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025, Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment (Amendment) Bill, 2025, Petroleum Revenue Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025, Public Financial Management Bill, 2025, Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Gold Board Bill, 2025.

The signings which took place at the Jubilee House fulfill one of Mahama’s major campaign promises and aim to reduce the financial burden on Ghanaians while boosting economic growth

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GRA begins process to remove E-Levy, Betting Tax from compliance scheme

Joseph Odotei — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 14:50:53 +0000

The Acting Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, has revealed that the agency will immediately begin removing the electronic levy (E-Levy) and betting tax from its compliance scheme once the President gives final approval.

Speaking to Joy Business after introducing the new Commissioner of Customs, Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan, to officials at the Tema Sector Command, Mr. Sarpong assured that the GRA will fully implement Parliament’s decision to abolish the levies.

“We’re an implementing institution, and once the law has been passed, we will take it off. Our President has indicated his commitment to this, and through the Minister, it has been done. E-Levy and betting tax have been abolished along with other taxes presented by the Minister on behalf of the President in Parliament,” he stated.

He added that the GRA would swiftly update its compliance systems to ensure Ghanaians benefit from the tax reliefs.

At a brief ceremony to welcome the new Customs Commissioner, outgoing Commissioner Brigadier General Ziblim Ayorongo urged officers to give their full support to Brigadier General Annan in executing the President’s mandate.

Brigadier General Annan pledged to continue effective policies to help meet the country’s revenue targets.

The delegation later visited the Tema Oil Refinery Command at the Tema Industrial Area before returning to Accra.

Mahama to assent to removal of E-Levy, Emission Levy, and Betting Tax – Finance Minister

Faridatu Seidu — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 08:58:09 +0000

The Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has expressed confidence that President John Dramani Mahama will swiftly assent to the recently passed bill abolishing the E-Levy, Emission Levy, and Betting Tax.

The landmark legislation, approved by Parliament, is expected to provide significant relief to businesses, individuals, and industry players affected by these tax policies.

The Emission Levy, introduced in 2024 to promote environmental sustainability, faced strong opposition from vehicle owners and businesses who argued it imposed an excessive financial burden.

Similarly, the 10% Betting Tax, aimed at generating revenue from the growing gambling industry, was widely criticized for discouraging participation and reducing revenue for betting operators.

The repeal of these levies is expected to ease tax obligations for various sectors while potentially reshaping income tax structures and corporate taxation.

Following the passage of the bill, Dr. Ato Forson took to social media to express optimism about the President’s approval.

“Parliament has just passed the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which abolishes the ‘Betting Tax’ and other levies. I have no doubt that H.E. President John Dramani Mahama will be more than willing to sign it into law without delay,” he stated.

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COVID-19 Levy to be abolished by end of this year – Deputy Finance Minister

Faridatu Seidu — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 08:31:07 +0000

Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem has assured that the COVID-19 levy is expected to be abolished by the end of the year.

According to him, the tax will be considered alongside the Value Added Tax (VAT) rationalisation process, which President Mahama’s administration promised to repeal.

In an interview with Joy News, Nyarko Ampem stated that President Mahama’s government is committed to abolishing all nuisance taxes, noting that the Electronic Transaction Levy (E-levy) and the betting tax have already been scrapped.

Responding to whether more taxes will be abolished, he said, “at this time it would be difficult to make any promises, but as the economy picks up, we wouldn’t mind to repeal taxes.”

“The COVID-19 levy will be considered alongside the VAT rationalisation process that we have been committed to do. So, when that process is done, I believe the COVID [levy] would also be removed. I’m looking at towards the end of the year if we are able to finish the rationalisation processes, we would be able to do that.”

He added that President Mahama is committed to fulfilling the promises outlined in the ruling National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) manifesto.

“So, we are working towards the rationalisation of all these promises he made.”

In the 2025 Budget, the government pledged to reform the VAT system by removing the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy, treating health and education levies as VAT, and reducing eligible VAT-registerable traders.

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Parliament approves repeal of betting tax

Gertrude Okyere — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 20:19:18 +0000

Parliament has approved the repeal of the controversial Betting Tax, along with taxes on gaming, lotteries, and the 1.5 per cent withholding tax on unprocessed gold.

The approval on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, follows the passage of the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

With this amendment, winners of betting games will no longer pay the 10% tax on their winnings, a levy introduced under former President Nana Akufo-Addo.

However, this move will create a revenue gap of GH₵268 million for the Mahama-led government. Additionally, the repeal of the unprocessed gold tax will cost the government GH₵145 million.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson disclosed that statistics from the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) show that between $2.4 billion and $4.6 billion worth of gold was smuggled to Dubai. He expressed optimism that repealing the tax would help curb smuggling.

Though the Minority argued that the emission tax law was not enforced, Dr. Forson indicated that the government had always intended to repeal it.

The Betting Tax, which imposed a 10% levy on gross winnings, was initially introduced to regulate gambling and increase government revenue. However, it faced opposition from bettors and gaming operators, who deemed it burdensome.

During the 2024 election campaign, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) pledged to abolish the tax, describing it as a “nuisance tax.” In line with this promise, Dr. Forson announced its removal in the 2025 budget, a proposal that has now been endorsed by Parliament.

In addition, Parliament has approved the Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy) Repeal Bill, 2025, effectively scrapping the unpopular digital tax.

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ISSER boss opposes gov’t plan to scrap betting tax

Faridatu Seidu — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 09:15:35 +0000

The Executive Director of the Institute of Statistical, Social, and Economic Research (ISSER), Professor Peter Quartey, has strongly opposed the government’s plan to abolish the betting tax.

His comments follow Finance Minister Dr. Ato Forson’s announcement in the 2025 budget presentation that the government intends to remove certain ‘nuisance’ taxes, including the 10% withholding tax on betting winnings.

Speaking at the Post-2025 Budget Statement Review in Accra, he urged the government to channel betting tax revenues into impactful youth development programs rather than eliminating the levy.

“We are told road tolls raked in GH₵72 million, and betting tax is around GH₵140 million. Now, we want to introduce road tolls, which generate less, and scrap betting tax, which brings in more. I know the young ones won’t be happy with me, but for once, I am against this,” he stated.

Professor Quartey questioned the rationale behind the move, arguing that betting is a form of income and should be taxed accordingly.

“With betting, you’ve earned income, and you are paying something, yet you say it should be free? And because of votes and populism, we allow this?” he remarked.

He also raised concerns about the growing perception of betting as a form of employment, urging the government to use the revenue to support sustainable youth initiatives.

“People want to turn betting into a way of work, like employment. No—tax it and use the money to develop something for the young ones. This is not sustainable,” he asserted.

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Deputy Finance Minister justifies removal of E-Levy, betting tax

Joseph Odotei — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 11:36:55 +0000

Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Ampem Nyarko has articulated the government’s rationale behind the decision to abolish the Electronic Levy (E-Levy), the betting tax, and several other taxes.

He highlighted that this strategic move aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s campaign commitments and aims to enhance financial inclusion for all Ghanaians.

In a discussion on Channel One TV regarding The Tax Implication of the 2025 Budget, Ampem Nyarko emphasized that the elimination of these taxes serves not only as a policy adjustment but also as a fulfillment of the promises made to the Ghanaian populace by the President.

“We have taken out some taxes in fulfillment of a campaign promise. Mahama promised that he would remove E-Levy, the betting tax, and several others—and he has delivered. We have done this to respect the social contract that President Mahama made with Ghanaians,” he explained.

He further stressed that the decision transcended political considerations, serving as a vital step to address significant economic challenges, especially within the digital and informal sectors.

“We did not just promise the removal of taxes—we were convinced they had to go. E-Levy, for example, was something every Ghanaian knew we opposed from the beginning. We still believe it hinders financial inclusion, and there is a report to support that,” he added.

Betting isn’t ideal, but it’s solace for many – Kwakye Ofosu

Gertrude Okyere — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 07:20:06 +0000

Government spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has defended the decision to remove taxes on betting winnings, arguing that many young people rely on betting as a means of survival due to economic hardship and lack of employment opportunities.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Roundtable on Wednesday, March 12, during discussions on the 2025 budget, Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged that while betting is not the “most desirable” activity for young people, it has become a source of solace for many who are struggling financially.

“We find that there were many youth who were driven into that activity because of hardship and the need for them to find something to do to make ends meet,” he stated.

“It is not the most desirable of occupations, or if you like, hobbies, but at the moment, many people are finding solace there.”

He explained that taxing the winnings of bettors, especially when jobs have not been created for them, only worsens their economic situation.

“Do you create difficulty for them by going to tax their meagre winnings when you have not been able to give them employment and they are struggling to find their feet?” he questioned. “We believe that it is important to remove that particular tax on winnings.”

Kwakye Ofosu, however, stated that betting companies themselves will not be exempt from taxation.

He clarified that they will continue to be taxed like any other business, paying corporate income tax and other applicable levies.

“Government is taxing betting companies on their earnings like any other business, so they pay corporate income tax like any other business and are subject to any other taxes charged on businesses,” he assured.

“But as for the betting companies, there’s no way they are escaping taxation.”

He noted that the removal of the tax on winnings has been well received by the public, describing it as a decision that reflects the government’s responsiveness to the struggles of young people.

“I think that it is something that has been widely received, well received by people, and it shows that it was something that was really suffocating people and we needed to do something about it,” he added.

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Bokpin urges government to reconsider betting tax

Faridatu Seidu — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:35:45 +0000

As Ghana anticipates the presentation of the 2025 budget on Tuesday, March 10, economist Prof. Godfred Bokpin has called on the government to reconsider its stance on the betting tax.

His remarks come amid the government’s pledge to scrap several levies, including the e-levy, COVID-19 levy, and betting tax.

In an interview on Joy FM’s Midday News on Monday, ahead of the budget presentation, Prof. Bokpin noted that while expectations are high, they must be tempered with realism, considering this will be the new administration’s first major budget.

“My expectation is that they will stay on the path of fiscal consolidation, primarily using taxation as a key tool. However, I anticipate some revisions to the tax regime, particularly the removal of the e-levy and COVID-19 levy,” he said.

“With the betting tax, I believe the government should reassess its approach due to the behavioral implications and other related factors.”

He further emphasized that while the emission tax remains on paper, it has not generated any revenue and therefore requires no immediate adjustments.

Addressing concerns about potential fiscal losses from the removal of these taxes, Prof. Bokpin estimated that revenue losses could exceed GH₵ 7 billion. However, he suggested these losses could be offset through administrative and compliance reforms within existing tax structures, particularly corporate income tax and VAT, both of which he described as inefficient.

“If we can improve VAT efficiency by even 15%, it will generate more than enough revenue to cover these losses,” he explained. “We should not view the removal of these taxes as losses but rather as incentives to households and businesses, which will stimulate consumption and promote economic growth.”

Prof. Bokpin also underscored the need for the budget to focus on cost savings through the elimination of wasteful government expenditures and the adoption of a lean government approach. He stressed that clear projections for cost-cutting measures and their impact on fiscal space in 2025 and beyond are essential.

Additionally, he urged the government to provide a transparent assessment of the country’s fiscal position as of the end of 2024, acknowledging that Ghana is unlikely to meet its revised target of a 3.5% deficit-to-GDP ratio and a 0.5% primary surplus. He called for clarity regarding arrears from state-owned enterprises and other financial commitments.

“We need an honest, data-driven assessment of our fiscal situation,” Prof. Bokpin said. “It is crucial to tell the story as it is without exaggeration so we can make informed policy decisions.”

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Sports Minister proposes betting tax allocation for Sports development

Samuel Appiah — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 23:21:24 +0000

The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has suggested that revenue generated from the betting tax should be directed into a dedicated sports fund to boost the country’s sporting sector.

According to Mr. Adams, channeling a percentage of the tax into the fund is essential for the sustainable growth of sports in the country.

The Buem constituency MP also disclosed plans to introduce a sports lottery as an additional revenue stream for the sector.

“I believe the time has come for this to be done. A percentage of the bet stake tax should be allocated to the sports fund. We will introduce a sports lottery,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

Mr. Adams further highlighted the need for a structured sports fund, drawing comparisons to past government initiatives such as the GETFund for education and the Health Fund established during President Rawlings’ administration.

“We established GETFund for education and the Health Fund to support health issues during President Rawlings’ era. We must recognize the importance of sports. Investing in sports can reduce diseases by promoting physical exercises and other activities,” he explained.

Meanwhile, several stakeholders continue to push for increased financial backing to improve infrastructure, athlete development, and overall sports management.

However, this proposal contrasts with the Mahama-led government’s stance, as Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has indicated that the betting tax will be scrapped in the upcoming budget presentation to Parliament.

It will be suicidal, financially ill-advised not to tax betting – John Kwakye

Joseph Odotei — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 09:22:27 +0000

Economist and Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Dr. John Kwakye, has firmly asserted that betting must be taxed, warning that failing to do so is both reckless and detrimental to the economy.

In a compelling post on his X page, he declared, “Betting is poised to become a significant component of the economy, presenting a substantial opportunity for tax revenue. Allowing betting to remain untaxed is unequivocally fiscally irresponsible and, indeed, suicidal!”

His comments come as the Mahama administration seeks to remove the 10% betting tax, following a campaign promise made during the 2024 election period.

Betting will become an increasing part of the economy with a huge tax revenue potential. Leaving betting untaxed would, therefore, be fiscally ill-advised and, indeed, suicidal!

— J. K. Kwakye (@JohnKwabenaKwa1) February 11, 2025

Increase betting tax to make it effective – GNCCI boss

Gertrude Okyere — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 07:16:45 +0000

The CEO of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), Mark Badu Aboagye, has argued that the current betting tax rate is ineffective in curbing gambling activities in the country.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition on Thursday, January 23, he stated that the government should consider increasing the tax if it truly aims to deter people from betting.

“If you want it [betting tax] to be effective, you rather have to increase it. Otherwise, it is totally a waste,” Mr. Aboagye stressed.

According to him, the current 10 percent tax rate is insufficient and will not discourage people from engaging in betting activities.

Mr. Badu Aboagye raised concerns about the socioeconomic factors driving many individuals into betting, emphasizing the lack of alternative sources of income.

“The issue has to do with whether those who are involving themselves in the burden, whether they have alternative sources of income. They don’t have alternative sources of income, so now they will do that,” he explained.

He further pointed out that betting does not contribute significantly to national economic growth compared to other productive sectors.

“If you bet, you are not adding significantly to the national income. But if you are productive, you are within the agriculture sector, in the manufacturing sector, you’re making your money, and you’re also adding it to the GDP,” he noted.

Mark Badu Aboagye described betting as an emotional activity that lacks productivity, stating, “The betting is people being emotional with somebody sitting in his/her home when there’s no productivity.”

Meanwhile, the Mahama government has announced its intention to scrap the betting tax once it presents its first budget in March.

The move has sparked discussions on whether eliminating the tax would encourage more betting or if alternative strategies should be adopted to address the issue.

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Betting tax is counterproductive – Sammi Awuku [Video]

Gertrude Okyere — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 11:04:37 +0000

New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Sammi Awuku, has expressed satisfaction with the decision of the Mahama-led administration to scrap the betting tax.

The former Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) stated that the tax was counterproductive and failed to achieve the desired results.

Mr. Awuku made these remarks in an interview with Adom News’ Parliamentary Correspondent, Ohene Amponsah.

“I have been consistent with my position under both the Akufo-Addo government and now Mahama’s that the betting and lottery tax is counterproductive and will not help the nation. It is a voluntary tax,” he stated.

In this regard, Mr. Awuku suggested that the government should engage with relevant stakeholders in the gaming industry and set specific targets for them. He emphasized that the government should avoid passing the tax burden onto players, as this would make illegal betting operators more attractive to bettors.

“Government must sit with the stakeholders and set targets for them to pay, rather than passing it on to the player. The tax will make illegal betting operators more attractive to players,” he said.

He further urged the government to incentivize companies that comply with the rules of the game. Additionally, he called for a review of Ghana’s laws, noting that illegal operators arrested and arraigned in court must face stringent punishments as a deterrent.

“It is considered a financial crime in some jurisdictions, so punishments must not be based on the judge’s discretion,” he added.

In August 2023, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) notified sporting and lottery companies of a 10% tax on all winnings from sports betting and lotteries. This generated significant controversy, with many blaming NLA for initiating the tax.

However, Mr. Awuku revealed that during his time at NLA, the outfit was not consulted before the tax was implemented.

Listen to Mr Awuku in the video above:

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We’ll abolish betting tax, E-Levy in our first budget – Ato Forson insists [Video]

Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 11:52:59 +0000

The Finance Minister-designate, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has vowed to abolish the betting tax and the e-levy in his first budget.

Speaking before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Monday, January 13, Dr. Forson argued that the current betting tax has failed to achieve its intended objectives and should be scrapped.

“I insist that the betting tax must be abolished, and as Finance Minister, I will abolish it in my first budget because it has failed,” Dr. Forson declared.

He stressed that the tax had not produced the expected revenue and had instead burdened the sector without benefiting the broader economy.

Dr. Forson also reiterated his strong stance on the controversial e-levy, saying his position on the matter had not changed.

“My position on the e-levy is well known. I have written articles about it, and my position has not changed,” he stated. He raised concerns about the classification of the levy, calling it neither a direct nor an indirect tax. “I don’t know how to classify it,” he added, questioning its efficacy in the current fiscal system.

The Finance Minister-designate emphasised that he would work towards a more sustainable and effective tax regime that fosters economic growth while relieving unnecessary burdens on the public.

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5 NDC MPs introduce bill to abolish betting tax

Gertrude Okyere — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 07:37:11 +0000

Four Members of Parliament (MPs) from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have introduced a private member’s bill to repeal the 10% withholding tax on winnings from betting and gaming.

The MPs behind the bill are Francis Xavier Sosu (Madina), Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson (Ajumako Enyan Esiam), Isaac Adongo (Bolgatanga Central), Teddy Safori Addi (Ayensuano), and Alhassan Suhuyini (Tamale North).

In a letter to the Clerk of Parliament, the MPs highlighted the current economic challenges and stressed the need for policies that ease financial burdens on citizens. They cited the impact of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) along with the ongoing issues of unemployment and economic hardship.

They argued that there is an urgent need for tax relief measures to help alleviate the cost of living for Ghanaians, promote savings and investments, and foster sustainable economic growth.

The 10% withholding tax on gaming winnings was introduced by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) on August 15, 2023, and applies to all gross gaming winnings.

This tax replaced the previous 15% VAT on each stake and was implemented under the amended Income Tax Act of 2023 (Act 1094).

Through this bill, the MPs aim to provide financial relief and foster economic resilience among Ghanaians, particularly in light of mounting economic pressures.

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We will abolish betting tax when elected – John Mahama

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 13:47:11 +0000

The flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has pledged that a future NDC administration would eliminate the 10% tax on sports betting.

This tax, introduced by the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) government under Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in August 2023, applies to all winnings from betting and lottery games at the payout point.

It was implemented to boost domestic tax revenue and help address economic issues in the country.

The tax has been met with significant criticism, especially from young people who have called for its removal.

However, during a Town Hall Conversation at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Monday, Mahama was asked whether his government would do away with the tax.

He responded, “We’ve talked a lot about this; if we come, we will abolish the betting tax. We know that this government has signed a deal with the IMF to initiate the betting tax, but when we come, we will find an alternative revenue source to replace the betting tax.”

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) reported in October 2023 that the 10% withholding tax generated GH¢15 million in just one month.

Mahama pledges alternatives to controversial betting tax

Dennis Adu — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 01:33:04 +0000

Former President, John Mahama has pledged to explore alternatives to the contentious betting tax as part of his campaign strategy for the upcoming elections.

Addressing concerns at the NDC’s Youth Townhall Meeting in Accra, the party’s flagbearer emphasized his commitment to tackling key issues affecting Ghanaians.

He reiterated his vow to abolish both the Electronic Levy (E-Levy) and the tax on betting winnings if elected.

Mr Mahama criticized the E-Levy for not meeting its revenue targets and for imposing unnecessary financial strain on citizens.

His campaign promises reflect a broader effort to address pressing economic challenges faced by the country

Mr Mahama also called for a more streamlined way of exporting local talent abroad.

According to him, the current manner in which professionals leave the country due to economic conditions leaves much to be desired.

This is how much GRA has made from betting tax so far

Gertrude Okyere — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 13:55:04 +0000

The Domestic Tax Revenue Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) says it has generated GH¢15 million from the recently implemented bet tax within a month.

The tax collector is optimistic that this amount will reach GH¢60 million before the football season ends.

The Commissioner in charge of DTRD, Edward Gyambra expressed confidence that the Authority will surpass its revenue targets by the end of the year.

“We have two streams of taxes: the gross revenue tax and the withholding tax. During the first month of implementation, we averaged GH¢20 million for the GGR. As for the withholding tax, we’ve just started the betting season, but during the lean season, we averaged GH¢15 million. We anticipate this to quadruple by May” he explained.

The GRA has introduced a 10% withholding tax on betting, with the goal of raising approximately GH¢400 million to bolster government revenue.

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Govt introduces 10% tax on betting and lottery

Applaud gov’t for imposing 10% betting tax, gambling affecting education – NYA CEO

You inflate BoG office project and expect the youth to accept obnoxious tax on betting? – Govt quizzed

Emmanuella Holomah — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 13:31:51 +0000

Member of Parliament (MP) of North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has said the opposition’s position on the introduction of the 10% tax on betting is justified.

In his view, the Akufo-Addo government has been reckless in spending the resources that have come to its disposal since assuming office.

Citing the recent issues surrounding the Bank of Ghana’s new head office building currently under construction, the former Deputy Information Minister said the government deliberately inflated the cost of the project.

In a tweet on Wednesday, August 23, Mr Ablakwa said the opposition to the new tax is justified and that it should be abolished immediately.

“It is no longer difficult to appreciate why Ghanaians get so angry & extremely agitated when govt introduces new taxes. How can you recklessly inflate the BoG office project from $81.8 million to US$222.7 million in two years and expect the youth to accept your obnoxious tax on betting?” he tweeted.

It is no longer difficult to appreciate why Ghanaians get so angry & extremely agitated when govt introduces new taxes

How can you recklessly inflate the BoG office project from US$81.8million to US$222.7million in 2yrs & expect the youth to accept your obnoxious tax on betting?
— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) August 23, 2023

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) on Tuesday, August 15, commenced the implementation of a 10% withholding tax on all gross gaming winnings.

According to the GRA, the withholding tax will be charged on profits accrued after each win and the existing 15% Value Added Tax rate on each stake will no longer be charged.

The GRA said that the new policy is in line with an amendment to the Income Tax Act 2023 (No.2), Act 1094.

Following this, the Youth Wing of the NDC has asked the government to immediately abolish it.

According to them, the “insensitive policy” will worsen the plight of the already impoverished youths.

In a press statement issued by the National Youth Organiser of the party, George Opare Addo, the NDC Youth Wing threatened series of protests at the Ministry of Finance and other government offices across the country should the government fail to abolish the tax.

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Applaud gov’t for imposing 10% betting tax, gambling affecting education – NYA CEO

Emmanuella Holomah — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 12:07:49 +0000

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Pius Enam Hadzide, says gambling is affecting the education of Ghanaian children.

He said the incidence of betting should be a matter of concern to all parents as it is affecting the values of Ghanaian society.

According to him, the Ghanaian people have suddenly developed an appetite for quick money instead of working hard to earn it.

Speaking in an interview with Citi TV on Monday, August 21, the former Deputy Information Minister justified the 10% betting tax introduced by the government.

“We have been concerned about the increasing incidences of gambling that are affecting even the education of children. Our assessment is that when you go to many of these betting sites, you see young people in uniforms betting.

“We have developed the culture that the Ghanaian is known as one who is hardworking, one who is committed to decent work and honest work. Those are our values. This idea of young people attempting to get rich quickly is a dangerous path to chart for any country in the long term.”

“So we have always advocated that the government should take steps to discourage gambling. We were looking at both legislative and physical measures, such as tax measures, to discourage and disincentivise people from indulging in excessive betting, especially now that our own research has indicated that the vast majority of the youth in our country are drifting into that area. In our view, it is a ticking time bomb.”

He thus urged persons raising opposition to the move to rethink and applaud the government for introducing the tax as a disincentive to curb the menace.

“So we applaud the government because we have brought up this matter before past and present officers of state, and we are excited that the government is finally listening to us and implementing measures to disincentivise gambling,” he added.

The Youth Wing of the NDC has asked the government to immediately abolish the recently imposed 10% withholding tax on all gross gaming winnings.

According to them, the “insensitive policy” will worsen the plight of the already impoverished youths.

In a press statement issued by the National Youth Organiser of the party, George Opare Addo, the NDC Youth Wing threatened a series of protests should the government fail to abolish the tax.

These actions include picketing at the Ministry of Finance and other government offices across the country.

“Our unity is unwavering and our determination to protect the funds of the young people secured through betting is unyielding.”

“Through agitations, protects, agitations and advocacy and civic engagements, we will ensure our voices are heard and demand that this corrupt Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government rescind its decision,” excerpts of the release said.

But Mr Hadzide says the NDC is just playing on the emotions of the Ghanaian youth.

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) on Tuesday, August 15, commenced the implementation of a 10% withholding tax on all gross gaming winnings.

According to the GRA, the withholding tax will be charged on profits accrued after each win and the existing 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) rate on each stake will no longer be charged.

The GRA said that the new policy is in line with an amendment to the Income Tax Act 2023 (No.2), Act 1094.

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NDC to picket parliament, occupy gov’t agencies over 10% betting tax

Gertrude Okyere — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 19:56:49 +0000

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) youth wing has announced series of actions to express their displeasure with the government’s 10% betting tax.

A statement, signed by the National Youth Organiser, George Opare Addo, described the policy as burdensome, unjust and insensitive

“Our determination to protect the funds young people secure through betting is unyielding. Through agitations, protests, advocacy, and civic engagements, we will ensure our voices are heard and demand that this corrupt Akufo-Addo/Bawumia Government rescinds its decision,” the statement read in parts.

They have also threatened to picket parliament, the Finance Ministry and occupy other government agencies to drum home their concerns.

“We intend to do the following; Picket at the Ministry of Finance and occupy government offices across the country. Start and scale up nationwide conventional and unconventional lawful agitations as a measure of the resistance.

“Instigate young people to confront officials of this government and demand an end to the corruption and Insensitivity of the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia-failed brigade, and Occupy Parliament and other government agencies,” the statement noted.

The introduction of the 10% betting tax, which took effect on August 15, 2023, forms part of the government’s efforts to raise revenue.

The implementation has, however, been met with mixed reactions.

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Read the full statement below: