Sri Lanka Announces Higher Taxes for Casinos, Entry Fees for Patrons

Sri Lanka’s financial regulator has confirmed that the country is raising the taxes applicable to casino operators, and has also increased the fee patrons and customers ought to pay to access gambling facilities. 

The measure came into effect on January 1, 2026, as confirmed by the Inland Revenue Department, and the decision was previously voted on by the government in September and approved.

Moving forward, the Gross Collection Levy that betting and gaming businesses owe to the state’s coffers is 18%, as Sri Lanka continues to grapple with public deficit, and clamoring creditors.

As to the Casino Entrance fee, it has also been increased to $100, double the previous amount of $50. The fee is reportedly going to apply to every visitor at the casino, with Sri Lankan officials hoping that the new price would not prove prohibitive for foreigners looking to visit and gamble. 

The country is also working on establishing its Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA), which ought to provide stronger overall oversight on the sector and help Sri Lanka raise further tax money to boost its budget.