Internet betting group Betfair has announced that they've made the decision to leave the Polish betting market, noting the country's high tax on betting turnover is unprofitable.
The move makes Betfair the latest major operator to pull out of the country, joining William Hill, bet365, EnergyBet, and others. The group has called the 12% tax on betting turnover unpalatable. The tax was implemented as part of the Polish Gambling Act, which looked to liberalize the market, but the tax has caused the situation there to not be profitable for operators. Feeling some blowback, the government has vowed to address the tax in the future, although no agenda for the issue has been set.
Betfair will be out of the market effective April 1st, and players within the country are urged to withdraw any funds they have in their accounts.
Comments
Well I understand their move but of course, if I was from Poland, I would be upset, as they are some good casinos. However, similar things happened with my country and although many casinos don't allow players from my country or bonuses, I can still find some solid places.
If Betfair leaving such huge market like the Polish one the taxes certainly have been too disadvantageous for them. 12% doesn't sound like much for me but probably that kills all their profit.
Betfair is my sportsbook nr1 at the moment and hope that they will not leave Lithuania. As blck has problems in Latvia, me in Lithuania as well and i cant use anymore for ex. bet365, William Hill, Poker Stars ,Winner Casino and some other well know operators.