Japan has officially approved a legal amendment to strengthen its fight against online gambling. The House of Councillors passed changes to the Basic Act on Measures against Gambling and Other Addiction, aiming to block unauthorized gambling websites and related content.
The new rules make it illegal to run or promote online gambling platforms targeting Japanese users. This includes hosting casino apps, sharing links on social media, or publishing rankings like “Top 10 Online Casinos.” Even indirect promotions, such as providing Japanese-language access to foreign gambling sites or inviting users to sign up, are now banned.
While the law doesn’t set specific penalties, it gives authorities a legal foundation to remove gambling-related content. The Internet Hotline Centre, working with the National Police Agency, will request internet service providers and tech platforms to take down such material.
Japan is also seeking help from eight jurisdictions, including Malta, Curacao, and Canada, to block access to licensed gambling sites from within Japan. At the same time, national and local governments are required to launch awareness campaigns to inform the public about the risks and legal status of online gambling.
Gambling in Japan remains illegal unless it falls under state-approved activities like lotteries and specific racing events. Casino-style gaming is only allowed under tightly regulated projects, such as the planned integrated resort in Osaka.
