Sri Lanka Doubles Casino Entry Fee as Betting Sector Tax Hike Kicks In - LNW Lanka News Web
Sri Lanka has doubled the casino entry fee for locals and increased taxes on casino revenue as part of a new tax regime.Summary
Sri Lanka's gambling industry faces increased taxation starting January 1, 2026, with amendments to the Betting and Gaming Levy Act. The Casino Entrance Levy for Sri Lankan citizens has been doubled to US $100, and the Gross Collection Levy for casinos has risen from 15% to 18% for those exceeding Rs. 1 million in monthly receipts. The country has approximately 13 licensed casinos, primarily in Colombo, with recent additions like the City of Dreams Sri Lanka integrated resort. The government also plans to establish a Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) by mid-2026 to oversee all gambling activities, including online platforms, aiming to standardize licensing and combat money laundering. These changes are intended to boost state revenue and stabilize public finances amid ongoing economic challenges, though the industry faces scrutiny regarding social impact and tax burdens.
(Source：Lnw Lanka)