Francis Sosu, 4 Other MPs Submit Bill to Abolish Tax on Sports Betting Winnings

Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, together with four other Members of Parliament, has submitted a private member’s bill seeking to repeal the 10% withholding tax betting and gaming winnings.

In a letter addressed to the Clerk of Parliament on 7th November, the MPs noted the urgency of this proposal, particularly in light of the current economic challenges and the need for policies that reduce financial strain on Ghanaians.

The MPs argue that the tax on gaming winnings only amplifies financial hardships and hinders economic choices for citizens, especially as they deal with the economic aftermath of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).

"Considering the impact of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) and the exacerbation of the twin challenges of unemployment and economic hardship... there is an urgent need to introduce programmes, including tax policies and measures, that aim to rescue Ghanaians in light of these harsh economic realities. These measures should focus on reducing the cost of living, promoting savings and investment, and achieving economic stability and sustainable growth. Hence, this Bill.”

BACKGROUND

The 10% withholding tax on gaming winnings, introduced by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) on 15th August 2023, applies to the total amount of winnings from gaming activities. This measure replaced the previous 15% VAT applied to individual stakes and was implemented in accordance with the updated provisions in the 2023 Income Tax Act (Act 1094).