Sri Lanka has taken fresh steps to increase revenue from its casino industry by doubling the entry fee for local players and raising the betting and gaming tax to 18%. The changes appear in the 2025 national budget and already have Cabinet approval.
Higher Costs for Local Gamblers
Local residents must now pay $100 to enter casinos, up from $50, while the betting levy climbed from 15% to 18%. Lawmakers drafted a bill to amend the Betting Gaming Levy Act and prepared it for Parliament.
Media and Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella told reporters:
“The Attorney General has cleared the draft bill. The Cabinet of Ministers approved its publication in the government’s gazette and agreed to forward it to Parliament for approval.”
Strengthening Oversight
Sri Lanka continues to tighten oversight and boost tax collection from its growing gaming sector. In August, lawmakers passed legislation to create a Gambling Regulatory Authority, part of the government’s strategy to secure up to 10% of GDP from tourism.
Casinos as a Tourism Driver
New casino openings have drawn international attention, most notably City of Dreams Sri Lanka, which launched in August. Melco Resorts Chairman Lawrence Ho said the project could become “India’s Macau” as the country targets Indian punters.
Sri Lanka expects 500,000 Indian visitors in 2025, a 20% increase from its largest inbound market. By raising taxes and entry fees, the government aims to balance stronger revenue collection with tighter industry control.
