NEW DELHI: The Union Finance Ministry has announced that the amended GST provisions for online gaming, casino and horse racing will be implemented from October 1. As per the changes in the Central GST Act, e-gaming will now be taxed at the same rate as lottery, betting and gambling. Also, the GST on online betting will be 28 percent of the face value of the bet, but the industry wants it to be levied only on future business. According to the law, 28 percent tax can be levied from 2017. Both the government and the industry are awaiting the Supreme Court's verdict on the matter.

Amendments to the Integrated GST Act make it mandatory for offshore online gaming platforms to register and pay taxes in India.

In its meetings held in July and August, the GST Council, comprising Union and state finance ministers, took the stand that online gaming, casinos and horse racing could be taxed.

Parliament last month passed amendments to the Central GST and Integrated GST Acts to give effect to the Council's decision. It was decided in the GST Council meeting in August that the amended provisions will be implemented from October 1. This tax system will be reviewed in April 2024.