The possibility of an online gambling tax across the EU has taken a step forward – with MEPs backing a report to include it in long-term budget plans.
An interim report was adopted with 370 votes in favour, 201 against and 84 abstentions, supporting the introduction of additional funding streams for the EU 2028–2034 budget framework.
Among the measures being considered is a levy covering online gambling, tech giants and crypto firms.
However, any new taxation framework would require unanimous approval from EU member states, which have historically been cautious about supporting EU-wide tax initiatives.
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has warned that a potential EU-wide online gambling levy could strengthen illegal operators.
The EGBA argues that introducing such a levy alongside existing national gambling taxes would be unworkable in practice.
Maarten Haijer, Secretary General of EGBA, stated: ‘’adding yet another levy on top of existing national taxes – in a sector where licensed operators in some Member States are already taxed at rates exceeding 50% of gross gaming revenue – would only have one winner: illegal operators.”
The Parliament is calling for the total EU budget to be increased to €2trn ($2.3trn), excluding Covid debt repayments. It is pushing for greater funding for key areas including agriculture, territorial and social cohesion.
The vote sets the stage for difficult negotiations with national governments. Several member states, including the Netherlands and Germany, have already signalled that they prefer a tighter budget than the Commission’s proposal.
Experts also warn that plans to tax digital giants could further strain already tense relations between the EU and the US.
Other developments in the EU gambling market include a new European Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) framework, which is set to be gradually implemented starting on 10 July 2027
