Dr. Kobby Boateng Sets the Record Straight on Betting Tax on Kessben Maakye
In an exclusive interview on Accra-based Kessben FM’s popular program, Maakye, hosted by Kwame Appiah Kubi “Mr. Speaker,” Dr. Kobby Boateng, President of the Ghana Association of Sports Betting Operations (GASBO), shed light on the controversial betting tax.
Dr. Boateng revealed that the sports betting sector paid approximately GH¢58 million in 2023, which nearly tripled to GH¢158 million in 2024. He clarified that the betting tax was fully implemented, contrary to claims by former Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam.
The GASBO President attributed the delayed rollout to the slow payments in 2023 but emphasized that the industry has significantly contributed to national revenue. He also noted that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) collects tax payments from both the Gaming Commission and the National Lotteries Authority (NLA).
Dr. Boateng further explained that the betting tax should not be confused with the National Lotteries Authority (NLA) withholding tax on wins, which was never implemented. He commended the NDC government’s plans to review betting taxation policies, including the abolition of the betting winnings tax, which industry players believe will boost compliance and revenue generation.
GASBO reaffirmed its commitment to responsible gaming and industry regulation, ensuring that sports betting remains a key economic contributor while upholding ethical standards.
