Burundi has introduced stricter tax compliance and financial-monitoring requirements for gambling operators under Joint Ministerial Order No. 760/540/319, signed on 12 August 2026 for the 2026/27 financial year.
Under the new framework, the Loterie Nationale du Burundi (LONA) will issue monthly tax invoices to gambling operators, who will have 10 days to settle the amounts due. Operators that fail to make payment within the prescribed period will face a 50% surcharge on the total outstanding bill.
The regulations also introduce a direct license risk for prolonged non-payment. Where an outstanding tax obligation remains unpaid for more than one month, the operator’s license will be suspended until the debt has been fully settled.
The tax structure itself places a significant financial burden on gambling operators. The framework provides for a 10% tax on player deposits, 10% on withdrawals and 10% on operators’ gross profits. Promotional games and tombola activities are also subject to a 10% levy based on the value of prizes offered.
Beyond taxation, the new measures strengthen Burundi’s oversight of operators’ financial and operational systems. LONA is to be granted access to operators’ information systems, while offline slot machines and other gaming equipment must be capable of connecting to the state’s electronic financial-monitoring system.
Monthly gambling-related tax payments are also to be processed through a segregated account at the Central Bank of Burundi, forming part of the government’s broader mechanism for monitoring gambling revenues.
The regulations further address dormant player funds. Winnings that remain unclaimed for three months in accounts with no activity are to be transferred to the Treasury, adding another financial-reporting obligation for operators.
The new requirements mean that accurate reconciliation of player wallets, gaming records and tax invoices will form an increasingly important part of license compliance. Discrepancies that remain unresolved could expose operators not only to substantial financial penalties but also to potential suspension of their operating licenses.
For companies considering entry into or expansion within Burundi’s gambling market, the new framework highlights the importance of robust financial controls, reporting systems and tax-compliance processes alongside commercial considerations.
The measures signal Burundi’s continued efforts to strengthen oversight of the gambling sector and improve monitoring and collection of gambling-related revenues.
