Bacta Warns of Economic Impact from Potential Machine Games Duty Rise
United Kingdom.- 22 October 2026 | www.zonadeazar.com Bacta, the British trade association representing the land-based gaming and amusement industry, has intensified its engagement with the UK Government over the potential consequences of increasing Machine Games Duty (MGD).
The organisation warns that higher taxation could undermine business profitability, threaten thousands of jobs and damage local economies.
The intervention comes ahead of the UK Autumn Budget on 28 October 2026, when the Government is expected to announce its taxation decisions.
Bacta Urges Members to Contact MPs
Joseph Cullis, President of Bacta, has called on association members to increase their engagement with local Members of Parliament.
Cullis believes it is essential for lawmakers to understand the potential economic consequences of raising taxes on gaming machines.
The appeal aims to communicate operators’ concerns before final decisions are made.
The main risks identified include:
- Potential closures of gaming and amusement venues.
- Job losses across the industry.
- Reduced investment in new machines and facilities.
- Declining commercial activity on Britain’s high streets.
- Wider economic consequences for local communities.
Meetings with the UK Government
Cullis confirmed that Bacta held meetings during the previous week with representatives from HM Treasury and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
During these discussions, the association outlined the potential consequences of increasing Machine Games Duty for its members.
The Bacta president described the meetings as constructive but emphasised that engagement with government officials remains ongoing.
The organisation intends to continue participating in discussions until the Government announces its budgetary decisions.
Concerns Over Land-Based Gaming
Machine Games Duty applies to revenue generated by certain gaming machines operating in physical venues.
Consequently, changes to the tax can directly affect businesses such as adult gaming centres, amusement arcades and other establishments that rely on gaming machine revenue.
Bacta argues that these venues support employment and contribute to economic activity in local shopping areas.
The association also warns that a contraction of the regulated industry could affect manufacturers, technology suppliers and other businesses within the wider supply chain.
Next Steps and Industry Impact
On 28 October, Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey is scheduled to present the Autumn Budget.
Until then, Bacta will continue encouraging members to raise their concerns with MPs in their constituencies.
No increase in Machine Games Duty has yet been officially confirmed.
For the land-based gaming industry, the debate represents an important opportunity to consider the balance between government tax revenues and the sustainability of regulated businesses.
Bacta’s position reflects concerns about protecting employment, investment and economic activity within local communities.
Editó: @fonta
