The Senegalese National Lottery (LONASE) has introduced a new 20% tax on winnings from its games, marking a significant change in the country’s gaming sector. This tax took effect on November 1, 2025, for physical retail outlets and is expected to be implemented for digital platforms by mid-November.

In an official notice to players, LONASE stated: “The Senegalese National Lottery (LONASE) informs its valued customers that, in accordance with Law No. 17/2025, a 20% tax will now be applied to winnings from games sold on the physical sales network, starting November 1, 2025, and on the digital channel, starting in mid-November 2025.”

The 20% tax will be automatically deducted from all winnings at points of sale and on digital platforms, meaning bettors won’t need to take any extra steps. For example, if a player wins CFA 100,000 (€152), they will only receive CFA 80,000 (€122), with CFA 20,000 (€30) going to the Treasury as tax.

While the tax is presented as a “civic contribution to national development,” it has sparked strong reactions among bettors. Many players are concerned about the impact on their net winnings, while others view the reform as a necessary step toward modernizing and formalizing Senegal’s gambling sector.

This tax is part of a broader initiative outlined in draft law No. 17/2025, which is included in Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s economic and social recovery plan (PRES). The draft law also proposes that operators contribute 20% of their share of prize pools to the state, although this measure is still under legislative consideration. The overall aim is to promote traceable digital transactions and financial modernization while LONASE continues to support social and sporting programs.