Italy set to increase tax on land-based gambling industry
Italy’s government has proposed increasing taxes on land-based gaming machines while doubling maximum slot stakes and prizes under its 2027 budget legislation.
The budget bill, submitted to parliament, would increase the tax on amusement-with-prize machines from 24% to 25%, while video lottery terminals would face an increase from 8.6% to 9.6%.
Both changes would take effect on January 1, 2027, if approved.
The maximum stake on traditional slot machines would double from €1 to €2, while maximum prizes would increase from €100 to €200, but, machines returning at least 70% of wagers to players would qualify for a reduced 20% tax rate.
The legislation also proposes extending existing land-based betting, slot, video lottery terminal and bingo concessions until December 31, 2029.
Italian gambling operators would be required to pay additional concession fees during the extension.
Government estimates suggest the combined gambling measures could generate approximately €952 million in additional revenue during 2027.
The proposed increases primarily target land-based gambling, with no additional online gambling tax included in the current legislation.
The measures remain subject to parliamentary approval, with Italy’s budget required to pass before the end of December.
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said last week that in tough circumstances it was time for those not doing it as tough to lend a hand, indicating her government would target banks, insurers, lenders and the gambling industry.
