The National Lottery Authority (NLA) has instructed all Lotto Marketing Companies, Private Lotto Operators, collaborators, and licensees to comply strictly with the approved 25% commission rate for retailers and agents. In a statement issued on 15 May 2026, the NLA said it had observed that some operators were paying commissions above the approved rate under the guise of incentives and bonuses. The Authority stated that “any commission payment above the approved 25% is illegal.”

The NLA explained that the 25% commission rate came into effect in August 2024 following a review aimed at improving the long-term sustainability of the lottery industry. According to the Authority, the revised structure was introduced to balance operator profitability, government revenue, and retailer compensation within the regulated gaming sector.

It added that any additional payments linked to retailer compensation remain subject to regulatory approval and oversight. Operators have therefore been directed to stop paying commissions above the approved threshold and to seek written approval before introducing any incentive schemes, promotional packages, or bonus arrangements.

The regulator warned that failure to comply could attract sanctions, including fines, suspension, or revocation of operating licenses. The latest directive highlights growing regulatory scrutiny of Ghana’s lottery and betting sector as authorities attempt to strengthen compliance and maintain a level playing field among operators.

Industry observers say competition for market share has intensified in recent years, prompting some companies to use aggressive commission structures to attract retailers and agents. The NLA said it would continue monitoring operator activities to ensure adherence to existing regulations and protect the integrity of the lottery industry.