83 Kenyan betting firms risk closure over licence renewal
To obtain new permits, betting companies are required to have settled all tax obligations and filed returns.
Kenya.- Only 97 out of 180 betting firms operating in Kenya have renewed their licences with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) ahead of the June 30 deadline.
The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) posted the report, while reiterating the consequences for betting firms that fail to comply with regulations.
On Wednesday, April 30, the KRA directed all betting firms licensed by the BCLB for the 2024/25 financial year to renew their licences by June 30.
The BCLB noted that the 97 compliant firms account for just 53 per cent of the total number of betting firms expected to renew their licences by the deadline. The regulator has warned that those who fail to comply risk suspension.
In addition to renewing their licences, KRA mandates that operators integrate with its real-time monitoring and revenue tracking systems to combat tax evasion.
BCLB’s post on X read: “All betting firms must renew their licences for FY 2024/25 and migrate to the new gaming management system. The system integrates with KRA for real-time monitoring and revenue tracking. Only 97 of 180 have complied. The rest risk suspension.”
To obtain new permits, betting companies must have settled all tax obligations and filed returns for both the company and its directors. They must also submit updated company details, including iTax profiles with current directors, physical locations and contact information.
The licence renewal is part of the government’s efforts to ensure gambling businesses contribute to national revenue and adhere to responsible gaming standards.
