The Gambia government to raise tobacco and gambling taxes in 2026

By Adama Njie

The Gambian government is set to increase taxes on tobacco products and gambling winnings as part of its 2026 revenue plans, Finance Minister Seedy Keita has announced.

Presenting the 2026 budget before the National Assembly, Mr Keita said the measures are in line with commitments under both the World Health Organization and ECOWAS tobacco control frameworks.

Under the new measures, the tobacco control levy on cigarettes, cigars and cigarillos will rise from D2 per kilogram to D3 per kilogram.

The government will also increase the tax on winnings from betting, gaming, lotteries and other gambling activities from 40% to 50%. Mr Keita said the policy aims to reduce the social harm caused by gambling.

He added that a new digital oversight platform will be introduced to strengthen revenue monitoring in the gaming sector.

As part of wider fiscal and environmental reforms, the government will replace the current ad valorem excise tax on fuel with a carbon-based excise duty.

According to the finance minister, the shift reflects the government’s commitment to tackling climate change and supporting the national energy transition.

Minister Keita also announced plans for an annual social protection levy to be imposed on all motor vehicles, motorbikes and tricycles.

The levy, he said, will provide a sustainable financing mechanism for government social protection programmes.