NLA orders Lotto operators to adhere to 25% commission cap

The National Lottery Authority (NLA) has directed all Lotto Marketing Companies, private lotto operators, collaborators, and licensees to strictly comply with the approved 25 percent commission rate for retailers and agents.

In a statement issued on May 15, 2026, the Authority said it had identified instances where some operators were paying commissions above the approved threshold under the guise of incentives and bonuses.

The NLA emphasised that any commission payment exceeding the 25 percent limit is illegal and not permitted under its regulatory framework.

It explained that the current commission structure took effect in August 2024 following a review intended to improve the sustainability of lottery operations in the country.

According to the Authority, all additional payments linked to retailer compensation fall within its regulatory oversight and must be properly approved.

The NLA has therefore instructed all operators to immediately stop paying commissions above the approved rate and to seek written approval before introducing any incentive or promotional schemes.

It further warned that non-compliance could attract sanctions, including suspension or revocation of operating licences.