Voluntary Disclosure Programme empowers Zambian gambling operators to settle past taxes
Casinos and online betting firms are urged to reconcile historic tax liabilities and take advantage of penalty and interest relief.
Zambia.- Zambia’s Revenue Authority (ZRA) is calling on gambling operators – along with other businesses and individual taxpayers – to take part in its Voluntary Disclosure Programme (VDP), which empowers them to rectify past tax mistakes without incurring punitive fees.
The programme allows companies and individuals to voluntarily disclose previously unreported or underpaid taxes, including those linked to gaming and betting activities, while securing relief from penalties and interest that would otherwise be applied during audits or enforcement actions. The ZRA said, in a statement: “Take advantage of the Voluntary Disclosure Programme and apply now to clean your tax record.”
The initiative is particularly relevant for gambling operators, where rapid growth and complex revenue streams can make compliance challenging. Casinos and online sports-betting firms, alongside other sectors, now have the opportunity to reconcile historic liabilities proactively, avoiding the financial burden of penalties and interest.
While the programme waives penalties and interest, it does not remove the underlying tax liability – all disclosed amounts must still be paid. For businesses and individuals alike, the VDP provides a chance to reset compliance and strengthen credibility with the ZRA.
Tax enforcement rising
Tax authorities are increasingly focused on sectors with high cash turnover and digital revenue streams, such as sports betting and online gaming. Programmes like the Voluntary Disclosure Programme are designed to surface latent tax liabilities before audits or enforcement kick in, encouraging proactive compliance.
Adding to the compliance considerations, Zambia recently implemented a 10 per cent excise duty on betting stakes, applied directly to every wager. Gambling operators are required to withhold and remit this levy monthly, increasing the importance of accurate reporting and record-keeping.
The dual push, reconciling past liabilities through voluntary disclosure while adapting to new taxation on current stakes, is shaping a compliance-focused environment across the economy. Proactive engagement with the ZRA, clear internal processes and expert advice are essential for navigating these changes.
For Zambia’s taxpayers – businesses, individuals and gambling operators alike – the message is clear: taking action now may be cheaper than dealing with enforcement later.
