Japan is taking a firm stance against online gambling with the recent approval of legislation aimed at banning the operation and promotion of online casinos. This move underscores the country’s ongoing efforts to regulate the gambling landscape amid rising concerns over addiction and social harm. The new bill amends existing laws designed to combat gambling problems, introducing stringent penalties for those involved in creating, managing, or advertising illegal online casino platforms. Final approval is anticipated before the current parliamentary session concludes on June 22. Japan online casinos ban
The scope of the legislation extends beyond targeting direct operators; it also criminalizes individuals who direct others to illegal online casinos through social media, websites, or other digital channels. Major online platforms will be required to monitor content and remove links or advertisements promoting these activities. Despite many online casinos operating under licenses from overseas jurisdictions, their services remain illegal within Japan. Participation in such unlicensed platforms is already prohibited, with violators facing fines up to ¥500,000 and potential imprisonment for up to three years for repeat offenses.
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This legislative push responds to escalating public concern over the surge in online gambling. Recent government studies estimate that around 3.37 million Japanese have accessed online casinos, with annual spending reaching approximately ¥1.24 trillion—about $8.7 billion. The issue has garnered additional attention due to high-profile cases involving celebrities and athletes linked to illegal gambling activities.
While land-based gambling venues are strictly regulated, the increasing availability of online platforms has posed new regulatory challenges. By targeting both operators and those facilitating access, Japan aims to reduce the social and financial harms associated with unregulated online gambling and reinforce its commitment to maintaining strict gambling controls in the digital age. Japan online casinos ban
