The economic impact of gambling on national economies has been extraordinary from 2020 to 2024, according to the latest research by Statista. The online gambling market alone is anticipated to generate a remarkable US$97.70 billion by the end of 2024, with an annual growth rate of 6.46% projected to expand the market volume to US$133.60 billion by 2029.

Minimum Deposit Casinos (MDC) – a division of the OneTwenty group – investigated how governments are allocating the gambling tax and its broader impact.

“We examined the top five revenue-generating countries in online gambling. It was clear that gambling tax is transforming national economies, funding essential public services, and driving significant community and environmental projects. In fact, it has had a profound and life-changing impact globally, demonstrating just how vital this revenue stream is for societal well-being and sustainable development,” stated Miranda Raaff, MDC Head of iGaming Information.

Top five revenue-generating countries in online gambling 2024:

• United States: US$14.4 billion was contributed in direct gaming taxes to the government in 2023. US$750 million was allocated for conservation work. The tax was also utilised for upland management, invasive species removal, resilience against flooding and sea-level rise, and water maintenance needs.

• United Kingdom: Betting and gaming tax amounted to £3.4 billion in 2023/2024. A significant portion funds the National Health Service and enhances healthcare facilities. Part of it is also used in community projects, road infrastructure, public transport, and housing.

• Australia: Gambling operators contributed AUS$5.8 billion to the government in 2020. A substantial portion funded public hospitals, medical services, and mental health programmes. It also supported public schools, universities, and training programmes. Infrastructure such as roads, public transport, and public housing also benefitted.

• Germany: €5.2 billion was contributed in gambling tax for 2022. A large portion funded public hospitals, medical research, and mental health services. Some was used for unemployment benefits, housing assistance, and support for low-income families. It was also directed towards infrastructure, arts and culture programmes, and education.

• Canada: Canada receives around CA$9 billion annually in gambling tax. A significant portion goes towards healthcare, social programmes, public safety initiatives, environmental protection, infrastructure, and more.