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Ireland Excludes Common Gambling Tax from Initial EU Budget Draft for 2028–2034

By jili tutorial · October 13, 2026

Ireland Excludes Common Gambling Tax from Initial EU Budget Draft for 2028–2034

In a significant decision, Ireland has excluded a proposed common tax on iGaming (online gambling) from the first draft of the European Union (EU) Budget for 2028–2034. The Irish Presidency, which assumed the role of chief negotiator for the budget in July 2023, will oversee negotiations for a budget expected to exceed €2 trillion (£1.7 trillion). This budget aims to fund ambitious economic programs, defense initiatives, energy security, technological innovation, and workforce re-skilling across the bloc. However, the omission of a unified gambling tax has sparked debate among stakeholders.

The Proposed Common Gambling Tax

The idea of a common gambling tax was initially championed by the Socialists and Democrats (S&D), a prominent political group in the European Parliament. The proposal, led by Romanian MEP Victor Negrescu, Vice President of the European Parliament and S&D member, suggested imposing a 1% tax on licensed gambling revenues across all EU member states.

Negrescu projected that this tax could generate between €2 billion and €4 billion annually (approximately €14 billion over the budget cycle). These funds were earmarked for critical areas such as education, youth programs, mental health support, addiction prevention, and the protection of minors.

Why Ireland Excluded the Proposal

Ireland’s draft budget outlines a spending ceiling of €1.62 trillion in constant 2025 prices (equivalent to €1.85 trillion in current prices). Notably, the draft does not include any reference to a common gambling tax. This omission reflects Ireland’s cautious approach, as the proposal faced criticism from various quarters.

The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA), a leading trade body for the gambling industry, strongly opposed the tax. Malta, a key player in the European gambling sector, also criticized the proposal, arguing that it infringes on the sovereignty of member states to regulate their own gambling markets independently.

Common Taxes Included in the Draft

While the gambling tax was excluded, the draft budget does propose the review of selective taxes on four key areas:

  1. Emissions Trading: Addressing environmental concerns through carbon pricing.
  2. Electronic Waste: Promoting recycling and reducing waste.
  3. Tobacco Consumption: A 15% contribution from member states based on tobacco products released for consumption and applicable duty rates.
  4. Carbon Offsetting: Encouraging sustainable practices.

Additionally, the Budget reaffirms the Corporate Resource for Europe (CORE) proposal, which mandates a flat-rate annual contribution from EU businesses generating over €100 million in revenues. This measure aims to alleviate debt incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stakeholder Reactions

Support for Common Taxes

EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa, have advocated for common tax policies to enhance economic self-reliance. Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela has also supported many aspects of the budget, though he opposes the gambling tax.

Opposition to the Gambling Tax

The EGBA and Malta argue that a unified gambling tax would disrupt national sovereignty and harm economies where gambling is a significant contributor. Malta, in particular, relies heavily on its thriving iGaming industry for economic growth and employment.

The Road Ahead

The negotiating document remains non-binding, and the final Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) will require unanimous agreement from the Council of the EU and consent from the European Parliament. The European Parliament has identified a gambling levy as a potential revenue source, which could pressure Ireland to reconsider the proposal during the budget cycle.

Implications for the Gambling Industry

The exclusion of the gambling tax in the draft provides temporary relief for the iGaming industry. However, the possibility of its reintroduction during negotiations remains. Stakeholders in the sector must stay vigilant and engage in discussions to ensure their interests are represented.

Conclusion

Ireland’s decision to omit a common gambling tax from the initial draft of the EU Budget 2028–2034 highlights the complexity of balancing national sovereignty with the bloc’s financial needs. As negotiations progress, stakeholders will closely monitor whether this contentious proposal resurfaces.