for early access to the latest igaming videos!
and get the latest igaming news first!
Concerns over the impact of the UK’s new gambling tax on Gibraltar were raised in Parliament this week, as ministers confirmed talks had taken place with Gibraltar officials but stopped short of offering any detail about addressing the impact of the new changes.
In a written question, Labour MP Gareth Snell asked what discussions had taken place with the Government of Gibraltar following the announcement of the new Remote Betting Duty.
“Engagement took place,” but the details are still missing
Gibraltar’s online betting sector has long relied on UK-facing operators, meaning changes to UK gambling taxes can directly affect operating costs, staffing decisions, and where companies choose to base parts of their business.
Responding on behalf of the Chancellor, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury Dan Tomlinson said the duty changes are expected to raise more than £1bn a year for the UK and confirmed the government had engaged with Gibraltar representatives after the Budget.
However, he did not explain what was discussed with Gibraltar officials or whether any steps are being considered to soften the impact.
For now, no meaningful readout of what was discussed, and no sign (yet) of mitigation, but the Treasury said it will keep monitoring the impact, if any.
Why Gibraltar is paying close attention
The questions also come as the UK moves ahead with wider increases to online gambling taxes. During recent Commons debate on the Finance (No. 2) Bill, MPs discussed plans to raise Remote Gaming Duty to 40% and General Betting Duty on remote bets to 25%.
The concern Gibraltar.is whether the government’s promise to “monitor” the situation turns into practical action. Once costs rise for operators, corporate decisions tend to follow quickly, and lost jobs and investment are not easily reversed.
Source: Gibraltar Broadcasting Corporation
