Government gives verdict on the bingo taxes issue

Earlier this year the government took the decision to raise taxes for bingo game from 15% to 22% which has caused controversy in the bingo industry as they have suffered several blows recently. That is why over 2500 fans both players from online bingo halls and physical bingo halls, signed a petition to express their disapproval about it.

Six weeks later, in their formal response the government said: "The government continues to recognize the important social role played by bingo clubs in many communities. The 2009 budget introduced a package of planned reforms to simplify the bingo tax system, continuing a process of reform that began in 2003. The participation bingo fees became exempt from VAT (value added tax), and bingo tariff was increased to 22%. The bingo industry had been campaigning some time now for exemption of VAT on bingo participation fees, and bingo tariff increases should not be considered in isolation. "

With this we can say that the protesters made themselves heard but apparently the government is refusing to bow in this situation as bingo advocates are not happy. To many what makes the subject more relevant is the fact that the bingo game is a form of gambling, more subtle, however, than many other forms of gambling which have much lower fees.

We hope that the bingo industry and the government reach an agreement soon so that no more bingo halls will be forced to close because of this and everyone can still enjoy our favorite game.