The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has announced revised tax measures for casino operators and betting and gaming businesses, which will come into effect from 1st of January 2026.
According to an official notice issued on 31st of December the Casino Entrance Levy (CEL) has been doubled from USD 50 to USD 100 per entrant. Under the new provision, operators are required to collect a levy of USD 100, or its equivalent in another convertible foreign currency or in Sri Lankan rupees from Sri Lankan citizens, for each person entering a gaming premises.
Meanwhile, the Gross Collection Levy applicable to betting and gaming businesses has been increased from 15 percent to 18 percent. This revised rate will apply to monthly gross collections exceeding Rs. 1 million from activities such as bookmaking and other gaming operations.
These changes follow amendments to the Betting and Gaming Levy Act No. 40 of 1988, introduced through the Betting and Gaming Levy (Amendment) Act No. 25 of 2025.
The IRD has directed all casino operators and betting and gaming businesses to comply with the new levy structure from the effective date, noting that further clarifications can be obtained from the relevant IRD officials.
