Japan Set to Block Online Casinos Amid Growing Gambling Concerns
Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) is considering blocking access to online casino websites in response to the rising issue of illegal gambling in the country. This move follows a surge in cases where individuals, including public figures like celebrities and professional athletes, have been found engaging in online betting.
During a recent budget committee meeting in the House of Representatives, the head of the Ministry’s Telecommunications Business Department revealed that preparations are underway to establish an expert forum. The forum will assess the technical and financial feasibility of restricting access to gambling sites.
“We are working on setting up a forum to review the issue. Our goal is to move forward as quickly as possible,” he stated.
The proposed forum will explore methods to limit public access to online casinos, which remain illegal in Japan despite being legally operated overseas. Last year, Japanese authorities identified over 160 individuals involved in online gambling, a significant jump compared to the previous year. This trend has sparked growing concerns among officials and the public, leading to increased calls for decisive action.
Gambling Scandal in Pro Sports Fuels Debate
The recent revelation of online gambling among members of Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league has intensified discussions about illegal betting. The NPB confirmed that 14 individuals—including players and staff from seven teams—admitted to engaging in online casino activities.
While the investigation found no evidence of betting on baseball games, the scandal has raised ethical concerns and questions about maintaining integrity in professional sport.
In response, the NPB launched an internal review, interviewing all personnel across its 12 professional teams, including players, managers, coaches, and support staff. Those who admitted to gambling had done so after February 2022, though the league did not disclose their identities or the specific teams involved. Each club has been left to determine appropriate disciplinary measures.
Strict Gambling Laws and Future Plans
Japan enforces some of the world’s strictest gambling laws, with limited exceptions such as horse racing, keirin cycling, powerboat racing, auto racing, and government-sanctioned lotteries. Unauthorised gambling, including online casino betting, is strictly prohibited, with offenders facing potential legal action within a three-year statute of limitations.
While Japan is yet to open its first casino resort, the government has laid the groundwork for integrated resorts, with the first expected to launch in Osaka by 2030. Until then, online gambling remains illegal, and the proposed blocking measures form part of broader efforts to tackle the issue.
