Uganda Eyes 30% Betting Tax and 15% Winnings Tax

Uganda gambling is growing fast, but lawmakers now want a much bigger share of it. Interactive gross win reached $438.3 million in 2025 and could climb to $995.5 million by the end of 2029, according to H2 Gambling Capital data. Sport betting led the market with $328 million in 2025 gross win, while offshore sites still took $114.8 million, or more than 26% of the interactive total.

Good to Know

• Uganda wants betting taxed at 30% GGR, up from the current 20%.
• A separate bill would add a 15% withholding tax on net winnings from betting and gaming.
• If both bills pass, the changes would start on 1 July 2026.

Uganda Plans a Heavier Gambling Tax Load

Against that backdrop, two new bills would hit both operators and players. The Lotteries and Gaming (Amendment) Bill, 2026 would lift betting to a 30% GGR tax, bringing it into line with iGaming. The Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2026 would then add a 15% withholding tax on net winnings from betting and gaming activity. Both measures were introduced as part of Uganda wider 2026 to 2027 tax package.

Right now, Uganda does not tax all gambling the same way. Gaming activity, including casino, moved from 20% to 30% under the 2023 reform, while betting stayed at 20% because it carries thinner margins. If the new plan passes, that split disappears and betting joins gaming at the 30% level.

The start date is close. Both proposals would take effect on 1 July 2026 if approved, leaving operators little time to prepare for a steeper tax bill and leaving players exposed to a direct cut on net returns. iGaming Business said the harmonised 30% rate would rank among the highest gambling tax burdens in Africa.

Uganda is not alone in that direction. Kenya last year brought in a 5% tax on betting wallet withdrawals and a 5% excise duty on deposits. In February 2026, Lagos in Nigeria also applied a 5% withholding tax on winnings

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