Sri Lanka’s government affirmed in a Wednesday notice that increases to the country’s betting and gaming levy and to casino entry fees took effect on Thursday (January 1).
Wednesday’s update from the Inland Revenue Department, stated: “Casino entrance levy has been increased from US$50 to US$100.”
It is applicable to Sri Lanka’s own citizens, mentioned the announcement.
The Wednesday statement added: “Gross collection levy has been increased from 15 percent to 18 percent on every betting and gaming business;” i.e., a 3-percentage-point rise.
The gross collection levy applies on bookmaker or gaming operator monthly gross collection amounts exceeding LKR1 million (about US$3,228).
The changes are via the Betting and Gaming Levy (Amendment) Act No. 25 of 2025.
The moves had been approved in September by Sri Lanka’s cabinet. That was just weeks after the country’s first large-scale integrated resort with casino – City of Dreams Sri Lanka – opened doors.
The property was developed by local company John Keells Holdings Plc, with the casino being managed by global gaming group Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd, a Macau licence holder.
