Casino gambling has proven to be a lucrative source of tax revenue, generating €34 million for the government in 2025, according to a recent report from the Gaming & Casino Supervision Commission. The report, presented to the presidency’s office on Tuesday, highlights a consistent upward trend in casino earnings over the past two years.
Casino gambling: Steady Growth in Casino Earnings
The report indicates that the gross gaming revenue (GGR) from casinos has seen substantial growth, reaching €227 million in 2025, up from €189 million in 2024 and €130 million in 2023. GGR represents the amount retained by casinos after paying out winnings, excluding taxes.
Major Contributors to Revenue
Among the five licensed casinos on the island, the integrated resort in Limassol stands out as the primary contributor to these earnings. Officially opened in July 2023, the City of Dreams Mediterranean features a 14-storey hotel with 500 rooms and an expansive 8,000-square-metre gaming area. In 2025, this flagship casino accounted for an impressive 86 per cent of the total casino earnings.
Operational Costs and Tax Contributions
In 2025, the operational expenses for all five casinos amounted to €2.59 million, with payroll costs reaching €2 million. The state’s earnings from casino taxes have also seen a notable increase, rising from €28.38 million in 2024 to €34 million in 2025. Additionally, the government collects an annual licensing fee of €7 million from the casinos.
Regulatory Oversight and Player Protection
The Gaming & Casino Supervision Commission, established in 2017, is responsible for regulating land-based casinos. The report noted that the commission has enhanced its risk-based checks to combat money laundering and to ensure the protection of players. These measures are part of its ongoing commitment to ensure a safe gambling environment.
The Landscape of Casino Operations
The island is home to five licensed casinos, which include the integrated casino resort in Limassol, alongside four ‘satellite’ casinos located in the districts of Nicosia, Larnaca, Paphos, and Ayia Napa. The integrated resort has not only bolstered local employment but has also significantly impacted the tourism sector since its opening.
Future Implications for the Sector
The consistent growth in casino revenues suggests a robust future for the sector, potentially leading to increased tax contributions and further investments in player safety measures. As the landscape of casino gambling continues to evolve, the commission’s role will remain critical in balancing regulatory oversight with the industry’s growth.
This significant rise in tax revenue from casino gambling reflects broader economic trends and the government’s ongoing interest in harnessing the potential of the gaming sector to contribute to public finances.
