The 2025 finance bill, which proposes to directly tax the winnings of gamers of chance, particularly in casinos, is causing heated controversy within this activity in Morocco.
Sector players, who operate in synergy with the hotel and tourism industries, are concerned about the potential repercussions of this measure on the national economy. They believe that this initiative could not only undermine employment and tourism, but also cause a notable reduction in tax revenues, a paradox for a reform supposed to increase them.
A direct impact on the attractiveness of casinos
Professionals in the sector emphasize that this taxation risks seriously compromising the attractiveness of Moroccan casinos, both for local customers and international visitors. Tourists from Europe, Asia and elsewhere, who make up a significant portion of casino customers, may prefer destinations where winnings are not taxed. This flight of players could quickly result in a reduction in attendance at local establishments.
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The warning is also expressed against undermining the very foundation of the gaming experience: the pleasure of winning. Indeed, imposing a tax on winnings without considering players’ previous losses gives the feeling, which is nonetheless justified, of an unfair levy, altering the perception of fairness and freedom that attracts players.
Worse, this could dissuade big Moroccan players, who have the means to travel, from frequenting local casinos and encourage them to seek more tax-friendly destinations abroad.
A risk of economic loss
The consequences of this measure go far beyond the casinos themselves. Indeed, Moroccan casinos are strongly intertwined with other key economic sectors, such as hospitality and tourism. A drop in casino attendance would inevitably lead to a reduction in occupancy at partner hotels, spending in restaurants and ancillary activities, creating a domino effect detrimental to the local economy.
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The figures support this concern. Moroccan casinos generate between 850 million and 1 billion dirhams in foreign currency per year, an essential contribution to the national economy. However, a survey carried out by professionals in the sector among 112 international players reveals that 54% of them would avoid Morocco if a tax on winnings were applied, and 80% would simply stop frequenting local casinos.
Such a flight of customers would jeopardize the direct income of the casinos, but also the jobs they generate, thus affecting thousands of Moroccan families.
Lessons to be learned from other countries
International experience provides instructive examples of the dangers of direct taxation of players’ winnings. Countries like Portugal, Denmark and Italy adopted similar measures before abandoning them, facing disastrous consequences: a sharp drop in casino attendance, a surge in illegal gambling and significant job losses.
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On the other hand, countries like France and the United Kingdom have preferred to tax gaming operators rather than players. This approach, which targets the gross gaming product, makes it possible to preserve the attractiveness of legal establishments while guaranteeing substantial revenues for the State. This strategy, considered more balanced, could serve as a model for Morocco, avoiding the mistakes made elsewhere.
For a balanced tax policy
Experts and operators in the sector are calling for a review of the measure, by proposing more adapted and lasting solutions. Among the options to consider, it is proposed to tax operators rather than players on the gross revenue from games which would make it possible to maintain the State’s tax revenue without discouraging players or harming the attractiveness of casinos.
It is also suggested to strengthen regulation against illegal gambling, through increased surveillance and dissuasive sanctions which would reduce clandestine practices and protect players while securing tax revenues.
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A dialogue with stakeholders, namely policy makers, gaming operators and industry experts, can help develop a balanced tax policy and obtain buy-in from relevant stakeholders, and the promotion of gaming responsible by launching awareness and prevention campaigns against gambling addiction.
A future to redefine for the sector
One of the experts contacted believes, for his part, that to guarantee its place on the international scene, Morocco must “adopt a tax policy that supports both economic growth and tourist attractiveness”. By drawing inspiration from international best practices and strengthening regulation of the sector, “the country could transform this threat into an opportunity,” he finally says.
Another professional in the sector also emphasizes that Morocco has “enormous potential to develop a competitive and ethical gaming industry”. However, this requires well-thought-out reforms that take into account the economic and social realities of the country.
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A balanced tax policy, “combined with measures to regulate and promote responsible gaming”, could not only preserve the sector’s achievements, but also stimulate new investments and strengthen Morocco’s position as an essential gaming destination.
This debate around the taxation of players’ winnings is controversial and highlights the complex challenges that Morocco faces in its quest to maximize tax revenue. In-depth and concerted reflection therefore seems necessary to prevent this measure from producing effects opposite to those expected.
