ADMIRAL Gaming Network warns proposed 2027 tax rises could cut gaming-machine revenue

ADMIRAL Gaming Network has expressed concern about measures the government has planned in the forthcoming Budget Law that affect the entertainment machine sector.

ADMIRAL Gaming Network describes a tax rise that it says would bring AWP turnover down by 10% and VLT turnover down by 15% for the whole land-based public gaming chain from 1.1.2027. According to the company, this would be accompanied by significantly higher concession charges, with a 25% increase for VLTs.

ADMIRAL Gaming Network said that, if the higher tax burden on AWPs and VLTs were confirmed, the economic balance of a supply chain that has already contracted in recent years would be compromised. It also said the estimated increase in state revenue would not be guaranteed.

According to the company, the machine sector has recorded a fall of about 45% in sums played and of more than 30% in players' net spending since 2018. It said the sector has already lost more than 9,000 jobs since 2018.

The company argued that reducing the economic sustainability of the network of authorised gaming venues would favour its gradual depletion, leaving space that could be taken by the illegal offer.

Michele Masini, chief executive of ADMIRAL Gaming Network, said the company understands the need to find resources for public finances. Masini said the company is asking for an immediate discussion with the government so that the budget measures are sustainable. ADMIRAL Gaming Network also said it hopes the budget process will include a detailed assessment of the economic, employment and social impact of the measures under consideration.