By Fatou Sillah
The Government of The Gambia will introduce higher taxes on tobacco products and gambling winnings as part of its 2026 revenue measures, Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Seedy Keita announced on Friday during the presentation of the 2026 budget before the National Assembly. The measures align with the country’s commitments under both the WHO and ECOWAS tobacco control frameworks.
Minister Keita disclosed that the tobacco control levy on cigarettes, cigars, and cigarillos will rise from D2 per kilogram to D3 per kilogram. In addition, the tax on winnings from betting, gaming, lotteries, and other gambling activities will increase from 40 percent to 50 percent, a move he said is intended to strengthen efforts to address the social harms associated with gambling.
“The tobacco control levy on cigarettes, cigars, and cigarillos will be increased from D2 per kilo to D3 per kilo. The tax rate on the winnings from betting, gaming, lottery, and gambling will be increased from 40 percent to 50 percent of the winnings to reinforce the fight against the menace posed by gambling and betting in society,” he said.
The minister further revealed that the government will deploy a new digital platform aimed at enhancing revenue assurance and oversight in the gaming sector.
As part of broader fiscal and environmental reforms, Minister Keita also announced the introduction of a carbon-based excise duty on fuel products, replacing the current ad valorem excise system. This measure, he said, reflects the government’s commitment to combating climate change and supporting national energy transition initiatives.
Additionally, the government plans to implement an annual social protection levy applicable to all motor vehicles, motorbikes, and tricycles. According to Minister Keita, the levy will provide a sustainable funding source for key social protection programs.
“An annual social protection levy will be introduced, applicable to all motor vehicles, motorbikes, and tricycles. This is aimed at providing a financing source for government social protection programs,” he said.