Greece shows no movement on 35% GGR tax rate

Seeking to reform its online gambling marketplace, the Greek government maintains that it will stand by its contested 35% tax charge on gross gambling revenues (GGR).

At the start of October, the Greek government approved a series of reforms updating the nation’s gambling frameworks with regards to licensing and taxation.

Controversially, the Greek government retained its 35% GGR tax charge but repealed a section of the 2011 gambling law that allowed online licensees to deduct this tax payment from their 20% corporate tax obligations.

The government’s proposed plan would be criticised by both established incumbents and foreign operators seeking to enter the Greek market, branding it as a double tax scheme creating unworkable conditions.

However, the government has responded by amending the legislation to clarify that operators will be allowed to deduct their revenue tax before corporate tax is applied.

Should reforms be approved by the Greek House of Representatives, industry analysts will be monitoring whether the Greek online gambling market can become a viable option for international actors.

In addition to its 35% GGR tax rate, the Greek government has also introduced costly licensing permits set at €3 million for sports betting and RNG (slot) provisions, with a further €1 million attached to licensee extensions.