Due to an error passed in legislation in December 2025, Estonia reports that online casino taxation has been eliminated for 2026.The law initially intended to lower the...
Estonia faces criticism over proposed gambling tax cut
A new bill, proposed by Estonia’s Reform Party and Eesti 200, aims to reverse 2026’s tax increase plan to 7% and gradually lower the rate from 6% to 4% by 2029.
Estonia announced plans for a gambling tax cut back in June 2025. According to supporters, the move will attract more online gambling companies to Estonia and will boost overall tax revenue and funding for culture and sports.
However, critics are here to debate their views. Andrei Korobeinik from the Center Party, deputy chair of the Parliament’s Finance Committee, called the proposal “cynical.”
“Looking at the overall picture, Estonia is already competitive in this sector. Investors care about a stable environment, and recent policies haven’t inspired confidence.”
Korobeinik said.
The Finance Ministry and Deputy Secretary General Evelyn Liivamagi share the concern that the cut could actually reduce state revenue.
Finance Ministry official Evelyn Liivamagi warned:
“In our assessment, revenues are more likely to decline. To meet current forecasts, at least ten new operators would need to enter the market every year and pay the same amount of tax as the average gambling organiser.”
Despite all these concerns, the bill passed its first reading in the Riigikogu on October 21st. Supporters argue that lowering the tax is necessary if the market wants to keep international gambling companies in Estonia.
Tanel Tein from Eesti 200 said:
“Raising the tax could push operators away. Cutting it to 4% shows Estonia is open for business.”
The plan raises questions, especially since online gambling is considered a high-risk sector for money laundering, according to the Finance Ministry.
FAQs
Is gambling legal in Estonia?
Gambling in Estonia is legal and regulated under the Gambling Act of 2008.
What is the legal gambling age in Estonia?
The legal gambling age in Estonia is 21 years old for casinos, 18 years old for sports betting, and 16 years old for lotteries.
Estonia’s ruling Reform Party and its coalition partner Eesti 200 have agreed to gradually lower the remote gambling tax rate till 2028.Estonia increased remote gambling...
