Japan is gearing up for a major legislative move that could shake the offshore gambling world. Lawmakers are preparing to debate a new bill that would explicitly outlaw the operation and promotion of online casinos within the country — a direct response to the surge in illegal online gambling and its social fallout.
Backed by both the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and opposition lawmakers, the proposed law targets Japanese-language gambling sites, particularly those promoted through social media ads and influencer-driven content. Even though online casinos are banned under Japan’s Penal Code, the gray area around foreign-based platforms has allowed them to flourish unchecked — until now.
In 2024, Japanese residents reportedly wagered over ¥6.45 trillion (about $44 billion USD) on overseas sports betting sites. Most of this activity is technically illegal, but enforcement has been weak, and public awareness remains low.
Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs is now pushing for stronger deterrents, including blocking access to unlicensed websites. The upcoming bill is expected to be introduced to parliament this month and could pass within the current legislative session.
If enacted, it would mark one of the most aggressive steps by a G7 country to police offshore gambling. North American operators — especially white-label brands — should take note: regulators around the globe are tightening the screws.
