Czech Republic Will Up Gambling Tax Rates

This week the Czech Republic's government revealed that it will be upping the tax rate on gambling in the country beginning in 2020.

The announcement came from the Ministry of Finance and will see Gross Gaming Revenues taxed at a rate higher than is currently being levied. The activity will split gambling between three tax structures, which will be based on how harmful the government sees the activity. Lotteries, live games, and bingo in the country will be taxed at a rate of 30%, up from 23% and fixed odds betting will go to 25% to 23%.

Speaking about the decision Czech Finance Minister Alena Schillerova noted: "Our country has made considerable progress in the field of combating addiction in recent years… but expert figures show that we must remain active.

"The increase in excise duties lowers the availability of addictive substances and also enables them to raise funds to support prevention projects."

The move was lauded by the country's Health Minister Adam Vojtech, who said, "Higher taxes can not only increase revenue, but also motivate consumers to reduce consumption, thereby reducing related health problems."

The rise in tax rates will begin on January 1st, 2020.