A levy imposed on casinos and casino gaming would rise significantly under a new draft law being proposed by the Laos government.
According to a report in the local Vientiane Times, the draft law, presented to the Lao National Assembly by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Somdy Douangdy last week, would see the levy imposed on casinos and casino games increase from 35% to 50% as of January 2020.
It is not clear whether the levy refers to tax on gross gaming revenue or some other measure.
The increase forms part of a government overhaul of the tax charged on services that are not deemed necessary for people’s lives or may have negative impacts on people’s health or the environment.
Other proposed increases include the excise tax on golf businesses rising from 10% to 25% as well as increases on vehicle-racing, cock-fighting and horse racing.
Levies on fuel, motorcycles and the internet will be reduced as they are considered essential for business operations and the daily lives of citizens.
Macau casino operator Macau Legend Development Ltd is currently preparing to start work on Phase 2 of its Savan Resorts property in Savannakhet, Laos. The company, which purchased the property for US$42 million in 2016, recently stated it was willing to spend an additional US$500 million on Laos casino developments.
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