If the implemented tax doesn’t reduce the number of gamblers or their activities, the government will gain more income. But if it ends up discouraging people from gambling, then their revenue will decrease, and I’m sure they’ve done some studies before deciding to implement it.
Those who are addicted will continue with their gambling habit. Those who are new, as in seeking to find a way to earn money will get discouraged. It is a known fact taxation does create an opportunity for those who are smart. It does disrupt those who cannot enjoy this opportunity. Those who make money are those who have money, whereas it works the other way for those who seek gambling for earnings.
They’re likely looking at the bigger picture, expecting to benefit if they impose this tax.
But we don't need to panic yet since it’s just a proposal, there’s no guarantee it will be signed into law. Even if it is, they’ll probably monitor whether it achieves their goals and could revise it over time if it doesn’t work as intended.
This uncertainty is likely what regulators fear most ;
This was undertaken previously in August when the government voted on the Lotteries and Gaming Amendment Bill, tweaking the country’s regulatory framework to ensure that Zimbabwe addresses fears about money laundering or uncompliant gambling operators.
The 10% proposed by Ncube will be charged on all winnings, meaning that you could as easily pay a 10% tax on your $5 wager as you are likely to pay on $2,000.
Fears have naturally materialized about the tax driving people to the black market and pushing players into websites that operate “offshore” and do not pay the tax to the government.