for early access to the latest igaming videos!
and get the latest igaming news first!
Starting January 1, 2026, Zimbabwe will implement significant changes to its gambling tax structure as part of a broader effort to enhance state revenue and manage the social risks associated with the rapidly growing industry.
Bookmakers will see their tax rate rise from 3% to 20%, while the tax on bettors’ winnings will jump from 10% to 25%.
Bye to Corporate Income Tax
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube announced these sweeping reforms during the presentation of the 2026 National Budget at the New Parliament Building in Harare on November 28. He clarified that the new 20% tax for bookmakers will function as a final tax, meaning that companies affected by this change will no longer be required to pay Corporate Income Tax.
“The tax hike is meant to enhance fairness and ensure that the beneficiaries of the sector’s growth also contribute meaningfully to public revenue. The new rate applies to all licensed betting companies, lotteries and casino operators, representing a 17-percentage-point increase,” Ncube said, according to iHarare.
Bettors will also feel the impact of this shift, as their winnings will now face a higher withholding tax of 25%.
“The government expects that this substantial increase in taxation for punters will not only enhance the state’s revenue stream but also provide the necessary resources to address the growing betting-related vices,” Ncube added.
Online betting is growing the fastest
The Zimbabwean betting industry saw remarkable growth, generating around $120 million in 2023, with online operations accounting for about $45 million of that total.
By 2024, the number of active online bettors surged to over 300,000, with approximately 60% falling within the 18-35 age group. This segment recorded an annual revenue growth rate of 8-10% from 2023 to 2024, marking online betting as the fastest-growing area of the market and highlighting shifting consumer habits.
However, this rapid expansion has raised concerns regarding addiction and social consequences, as the growth of the industry has outstripped current regulatory measures.
In response, the government is introducing new measures to tackle both the economic benefits and the social risks associated with this booming sector. These changes represent one of the most significant overhauls of Zimbabwe’s gambling landscape in recent years, aiming to increase state revenue while ensuring compliance with regulations and fairness in contributions.
Source: Focus Gaming News
