Estonia approves gradual reduction of online gambling tax rate — CDC Gaming

The Estonian government has approved a plan to gradually reduce the online gambling tax rate from 6% to 4%, a move officials say will strengthen the country’s appeal to international operators and secure more stable funding for sports and culture.

However, the plan has drawn sharp criticism from opposition lawmakers and former finance officials, who warn it could leave a hole in public finances.

The changes reverse earlier plans to raise the rate to 7% next year.

Under the amendments to the Gambling Tax Act, the rate will fall in 0.5-percentage-point increments until it reaches 4% in 2029. Each reduction is contingent on revenue benchmarks being met.