Turkey's gambling tax revenue reaches 38.4 billion lira

In the first half of 2025 Turkey's tax from chance games (Şans Oyunları Vergisi, ŞOV) surged 45% to 38.4 billion lira, covering 57.2% of the year‑long budget forecast. The increase follows the 2020 privatization of the Milli Piyango administration, a shift to digital lottery platforms and higher tax rates on sports betting, horse racing and other games.

A recent audit by the Supreme Court of Accounts shows the illegal betting sector is also expanding: 4,658 cases involving Spor Toto were recorded in 2024 and 388 gambling websites were ordered blocked, many of which reopened after closure. The tax rise reflects both greater public participation in legal gambling and the government's crackdown on unlawful betting networks.