Date: 03.06.2025

by Jonasz Papuga

Japanese Lawmakers Move to Block Promotion of Unauthorized Online Casinos

Japan’s lower house has approved a bill to combat the growing use of unlicensed online casinos, targeting not only illegal platforms themselves but also individuals and websites that promote or direct users to them. The legislation responds to mounting concerns over the scale of online gambling and its social impact.

Revised Law Targets Casino Promotion and Hosting

Japan’s House of Representatives has approved changes to existing gambling legislation, introducing stricter rules to fight online casino promotion and addiction. The new bill bans operating online casinos and sharing content that directs users to these platforms, even if hosted overseas.

Lawmakers expect to enact the amendment before the parliamentary session ends on June 22. The revision holds not only casino operators accountable but also influencers, affiliates, and social media platforms that fail to remove illegal content.

Online Gambling in Japan: Widespread but Unregulated

Online casino sites are legally available in some jurisdictions, but remain unauthorized in Japan. Nevertheless, access remains widespread. A National Police Agency survey released in March estimated that 3.37 million people in Japan have used online casinos, with total wagers amounting to around 1.24 trillion yen (approximately $8.7 billion) annually.

The popularity of virtual gambling platforms has drawn increased scrutiny following reports of participation by public figures, including athletes and celebrities.

Legal Consequences and Penalties

Under existing law, placing bets on online casinos from within Japan is punishable by a fine of up to 500,000 yen. Repeat offenders may face prison terms of up to three years under Japan’s Penal Code.

The newly passed amendment reinforces these penalties and puts additional pressure on digital platforms and advertisers to ensure they are not facilitating access to unauthorized gambling content.