Gambling companies are set to protest against the potential newest tax hikes decided by the Italian government. The Italian government has decided to set new tax hikes for the gambling industry, as well as reduced customer payouts, through a “maxi amendment” to the budget, which still needs to be approved by the full Parliament. However, gambling operators voiced their concerns about the potential changes and how they may impact the segment. Under the potential legislation, online sports betting revenue would be taxed with a 24% rate, up from 22%. Land-based operators will also have to pay greater taxes as they will be raised to 20%, virtual sports betting to 22% and betting hikes are expected to cost an additional €30 million a year. Italian gaming operator association Logico voiced their concerns through their president, Moreno Marasco, who said the decision would only force customers to migrate to different types of gambling from international operators who work in Italy without permission. Geronimo Cardia, president of gambling association Acadi also protested against the tax raise and asked the Italian authorities to reconsider and conduct an in-depth analysis of how it would impact on local operators. (2019/01/09)