It has been reported that a Group of Ministers (GoM), which was set up to examine issues related to the taxation of casinos, racecourses and online gaming, have tentatively agreed that a 28% GST should be imposed on the aforementioned activities. However, specifically as regards taxation of online games, it is reported that there has been no consensus as Goa proposed an 18% tax on platform fees.
The Group of Ministers, consists of members from eight States in India (i.e. West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Gujarat, and Maharashtra) and is convened by the Chief Minister of Meghalaya – Conrad Sangma.
However, it is expected the final decision in this regard will be made by the GST Council, in its upcoming meeting on July 11, is scheduled to make a final decision on the percentage of taxation and whether the tax should be levied on the:
- Gross gaming revenue (GGR), or
- Fee charged by the platform; or
- Full face value of bets put in by players of online gaming, horse racing and casinos.