Dominican Government Moves to Raise Gambling Taxes and Expand Regulatory Oversight

Under the proposal submitted to Congress, lottery retailers would face one of the steepest increases. The annual fixed tax would rise from DOP 35,000 to DOP 120,000, representing an increase of nearly 243%.

Sports betting operators would also see their tax burden grow significantly. Betting shops located in major metropolitan areas, including Santo Domingo, Santiago, San Cristóbal, Duarte, Puerto Plata, La Vega, and the National District, would be required to pay DOP 500,000 annually, up from the current DOP 225,000. Operators located outside those regions would face a new annual tax of DOP 300,000, double the existing DOP 150,000 rate.

The proposed reforms extend to the casino sector as well. Casinos operating between one and 15 gaming tables would see monthly taxes rise from DOP 32,500 to DOP 70,000 per table. Properties with 16 to 35 tables would pay DOP 80,000 per table each month, compared to the current DOP 37,500. Larger venues with more than 35 tables would be charged DOP 100,000 per table above the previous threshold, doubling the current DOP 50,000 rate.

Alongside the tax measures, lawmakers are also considering a separate bill that would significantly expand gambling regulation in the country. The proposal would transform the National Lottery into a dedicated gambling regulator with authority over all forms of gaming activity.

At present, gambling oversight is largely shared between the National Lottery and the Ministry of Finance, particularly through the Directorate of Casinos and Gambling. If approved, the new framework would centralize regulatory responsibilities under a single body while increasing government oversight of the sector.