Gambia Capital Gains Tax Guide 2026

Overview — CGT in Gambia

Capital gains tax in Gambia is governed by the Income and VAT Act. A chargeable gain arises when a person disposes of a capital asset for consideration exceeding the allowable cost. Disposal includes sale, exchange, and gift. Under Gambia's territorial system, only gains derived from or accruing in Gambia are subject to tax. Resident individuals and companies are taxed on Gambian-source chargeable gains; non-residents are taxed only on gains from Gambian assets. For companies, capital gains are treated as ordinary income taxed at the standard CIT rate of 27%. For individuals, a separate 15% rate applies to property gains.

CGT on Property — 15%

Gains from the disposal of real property (land and buildings) are subject to CGT at 15% for individuals. The chargeable gain is calculated as: Selling price minus (Acquisition cost + Incidental costs + Improvement expenditure). Allowable costs include the original purchase price, legal fees, stamp duty, and capital improvements. The gain is assessed in the year of disposal. The principal private residence may be exempt if the property has been occupied as the main residence. Property held for more than 10 years may qualify for a reduction in the taxable gain.

CGT on Securities

Gambia does not have a specific CGT rate for securities separate from the corporate tax treatment. Gains from the disposal of shares and other financial instruments by individuals are generally treated as income and may be subject to income tax. For corporate shareholders, gains on securities are included in ordinary income and taxed at the standard CIT rate of 27%. There is no dedicated securities CGT regime for individuals, which means most individual investors in shares and bonds are not subject to capital gains tax unless they are traders.

Business Asset Disposals

For companies, capital gains on the disposal of fixed assets (property, plant, machinery, intangible assets) are included in ordinary taxable income and taxed at the standard CIT rate of 27%. Rollover relief is available when the proceeds from the disposal of a business asset are reinvested in a replacement asset within a specified period. For individuals selling business assets, the 15% property CGT rate applies to immovable property, while movable business assets may be subject to income tax as trading income.

FAQs

How do I calculate my chargeable gain?

The chargeable gain is the difference between the disposal proceeds (net of selling costs) and the acquisition cost (plus enhancement expenditure). Example: Buy land for GMD 5,000,000, sell for GMD 8,000,000, costs of GMD 300,000. Gain = 8,000,000 − 5,000,000 − 300,000 = GMD 2,700,000. CGT at 15% = GMD 405,000.

Can I offset capital losses against capital gains?

Yes, capital losses in a tax year may be offset against capital gains in the same year. Unrelieved losses may be carried forward. Losses on one asset class may offset gains on another.

What assets are exempt from CGT?

Principal residence (subject to occupancy condition), personal motor vehicles, assets transferred on death, and gains below certain thresholds.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Gambian capital gains tax for the 2026 tax year. Tax laws and rates may change. Always consult with a qualified Gambian tax advisor or the Gambia Revenue Authority for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax advice.