Senegal’s National Lottery officially rolls out new 20 per cent tax on player winnings
The tax, which took effect on November 1 for physical outlets, will be extended to digital platforms in mid-November as part of a drive for citizen-contribution to national development.
Senegal.- The Senegalese National Lottery (LONASE) has officially introduced a new 20 per cent tax on winnings from its games, marking a significant shift in Senegal’s gaming sector. The tax took effect just days ago on November 1 for physical retail outlets and is expected to roll out around mid‑November for digital platforms, under Law No. 17/2025.
In an official notice to players, LONASE stated: “The Senegalese National Lottery (LONASE) informs its valued customers that, in accordance with Law No. 17/2025, a 20 per cent tax will now be applied to winnings from games sold on the physical sales network, starting Saturday, November 1, 2025, and on the digital channel, starting in mid‑November 2025.”
Civic contribution vs player penalty
The tax is automatically deducted at all points of sale and on digital platforms, so bettors do not need to take any extra steps. A Senenews report stated: “This 20 per cent tax will be levied on the total amount won, after the bet has been validated. For example, a player who wins CFA100,000 (€152) from a winning bet will only receive CFA80,000 (€122), the remaining CFA20,000 (€30) being paid to the Treasury as a tax on winnings.”
Bettors are bracing for a new government measure intended to support countrywide development, the report added. “Presented as a ‘civic contribution to national development’, this decision, initiated by the government, is already provoking strong reactions among bettors.”
The 20 per cent tax on player winnings is also part of a broader draft measure under draft law No. 17/2025, included in Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s economic and social recovery plan (PRES). The draft law also proposes that operators contribute 20 per cent of their share of prize pools to the state, though this measure remains under legislative consideration. The law aims to promote traceable digital transactions and financial modernisation.
While some players are concerned about reduced net winnings, others see the reform as a step toward modernising and formalising Senegal’s gambling sector, with LONASE continuing to play a central role in supporting social and sporting programs.
