The Ghana Association of Sports Betting Operations (GASBO) has strongly refuted claims by former Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam that the betting tax was never implemented.

The Association emphasized that, despite the delayed rollout, the industry has significantly contributed to national revenue.

According to Dr. Kobby Boateng, President of GASBO, the sports betting sector’s tax payments nearly tripled within a year.

“In 2023, we paid approximately GH¢58 million. The implementation of the tax began in August, which led to slow payments.

By 2024, our contributions nearly tripled, reaching GH¢158 million,” he disclosed.

Dr Boateng clarified that the former Finance Minister was confusing the betting tax with the National Lotteries Authority (NLA) withholding tax on wins, which was never implemented.

“The NLA successfully lobbied for an exemption from the tax for reasons I don’t want to discuss.

But the betting tax, as implemented by the Gaming Commission, was duly collected,” he explained.

He further detailed that Ghana’s gaming industry is regulated by two entities:

The Gaming Commission, which oversees sports betting companies and casinos. The National Lotteries Authority (NLA), regulates lottery operations.

Dr. Boateng noted that all tax payments from both regulatory bodies are collected by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

Betting tax was fully implemented and the GRA can clarify that, he argues.

Meanwhile, the NDC government has announced plans to review betting taxation policies, including the abolition of the betting winnings tax—a move that industry players believe will further boost compliance and revenue generation.

GASBO has reaffirmed its commitment to responsible gaming and industry regulation, ensuring that sports betting remains a key economic contributor while upholding ethical standards.

 

Dr. Boateng made these remarks in an interview on Accra-based Kessben FM on Wednesday.