Japan moves to block access to online casinos triggered by rising gambling concern

Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) is exploring the possibility of blocking access to online casino websites as a response to the increasing prevalence of illegal online gambling in the country. The Ministry's move follows a dramatic rise in cases where individuals, including public figures such as celebrities and athletes, were found to have participated in online gambling activities.  

During a recent subcommittee meeting of the House of Representatives’ Budget Committee, the Chief of the Ministry’s Telecommunications Business Department disclosed that preparations are underway to establish a forum with experts to assess the technical and financial requirements for implementing a website block.

“We are preparing to set up a forum to consider the matter. We want to move everything forward so that we can start considering the measure as soon as possible,” he said.  

The proposed forum will evaluate the potential methods to restrict public access to online casinos, which remain illegal in Japan despite being legally operated overseas. Last year, Japanese police identified over 160 individuals involved in online gambling, a significant increase from the previous year. The rising trend has prompted concern among authorities and the public, leading to calls for decisive action.  

Recent revelations of gambling by members of Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) Organisation have intensified the discussion around illegal online gambling. The NPB announced that 14 individuals, including players and staff from seven different teams, admitted to engaging in online casino activities.

While the investigation found no evidence of betting on baseball games, the incident has raised ethical questions and concerns about maintaining the integrity of professional sports.

The NPB initiated an internal probe to uphold Japan’s strict gambling regulations. The investigation involved interviews with all personnel associated with its 12 professional leagues, including players, managers, coaches, and support staff.

Those who admitted to gambling had done so after February 2022, though the NPB did not disclose their identities or the specific teams involved, leaving disciplinary actions to the respective clubs.

Japan enforces stringent gambling laws, allowing only a few exceptions such as horse racing, auto racing, boat racing, velodrome cycling, and government-sanctioned lotteries. Unauthorized gambling, including online casino betting, is strictly prohibited, and offenders can face legal action within a three-year statute of limitations.

While Japan is yet to open its first casino, the government has laid down a framework for integrated resorts, with the first expected to debut in Osaka in 2030. However, until then, online gambling remains illegal, and the proposed blocking measures are part of the efforts to curb this growing issue.