Bulgaria Raises Gambling Tax to 25% From 2026
Bulgaria has joined a growing list of European nations adjusting gambling tax regimes to bolster state revenues, unveiling a 25% gross gaming revenue (GGR) levy effective January 2026, up from the current 20%. The move aims to help plug a €3.86bn fiscal deficit while balancing sector growth.
Analysts note the rate sits at a critical threshold. A recent Betting and Gaming Council study found markets with GGR taxes below 25% saw an average 13% annual increase in tax revenue between 2019 and 2024, compared with just 9% for jurisdictions above 25%.
Across Europe, other regulators are taking varied approaches. The Netherlands raised its GGR tax to 34.2% in early 2025, with plans to reach 37.8% in 2026, while Romania lifted its online gambling tax from 21% to 27% mid-year. These hikes have already sparked concern over market engagement, with the Dutch industry potentially facing a €200m shortfall due to reduced player activity.
By contrast, Estonia is experimenting with staged tax reductions for remote gambling, cutting the rate from 6% to 4% over four years. Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna confirmed the plan includes safeguards to pause reductions if revenue targets are not met.
Bulgaria’s approach reflects a cautious middle path: increasing state revenue without imposing an excessively burdensome tax that could stifle the regulated market. As European governments continue to weigh fiscal priorities against industry health, outcomes in both Bulgaria and other nations will be closely monitored.
