Senegal Bettors Strike Against 20 Percent Gambling Tax
Bettors across Senegal launched a coordinated 72-hour strike protesting the government’s newly implemented 20% tax on gambling winnings beginning November 3. Players refused to participate in all games nationwide, arguing the levy could undermine the regulated betting market. Bettor associations described the tax as exploitation and a scam, according to Seneweb reports.
Tax Implementation Reduces Player Payouts
The National Lottery of Senegal introduced the 20% tax under Law No. 17/2025 taking effect November 1 for physical outlets. Digital platform rollout occurred November 15 with automatic deduction at payout. A win of $150 now yields $120 to the player, with the remainder remitted to Treasury.
LONASE authorities describe the measure as a civic contribution to national development. The tax aims to formalize and modernize the gambling sector, according to official notices. Bettors continue voicing concerns over reduced net winnings following implementation.
Regional Participation Disrupts Operations
Bettor associations in Dakar, Thiès, Rufisque, Ziguinchor and Matam participated in the strike. Several retail outlets reported noticeably reduced activity during the boycott. Some locations remained quiet as the strike took hold across key regions.
Associations warned they may turn to foreign online platforms via mobile money to bypass the tax. The move to offshore or unregulated platforms could undercut licensed operators and weaken regulatory oversight. Mobile money payments facilitate access to unregulated gambling services.
The tax forms part of the Economic and Social Recovery Plan, improving transparency and revenue collection. The strike highlights sensitivity of regulated betting markets to taxation measures. Strong backlash emerges when levies are perceived as unfair by player communities across Senegal’s gambling sector.
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