Govt Targets Betting Houses, Fast Food Outlets – Eduzim News

By Business Reporter-The government has introduced new taxes targeting betting houses and fast food outlets, effective January 1, 2025.

In his budget presentation last week, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube announced a 10% withholding tax on gross winnings for sports betting punters.

“Sports betting punters currently receive income from winnings, which is not taxable under Personal Income Tax. To include punters in the tax base, I propose to introduce a 10% withholding tax on gross winnings,” Ncube said.

Additionally, Ncube introduced a 0.5% Fast Foods Tax on items sold by fast food outlets and restaurants.

“The consumption of highly processed food has been identified as a factor behind obesity and associated non-communicable diseases. Hence, the government seeks to promote responsible consumption by introducing a modest 0.5% tax on the sales value of foods such as pizza, burgers, hot dogs, French fries, and chicken,” he added.

Since his appointment as Finance Minister in 2017, Ncube has implemented several controversial taxes, sparking public discontent. 

Critics argue that over-taxation stifles economic growth, reduces disposable income, and undermines fiscal discipline, further burdening an already struggling population.

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