Japan Seeks Foreign Help to Stop Illegal Gambling Sites

Japan has launched a new push to limit access to offshore online casinos as part of its wider strategy to control illegal gambling. The move comes ahead of the planned opening of MGM Osaka, the country’s first integrated casino resort. Authorities are urging foreign regulators to prevent operators licensed under their jurisdictions from targeting users in Japan.

Good to know

• Japan has contacted regulators in eight jurisdictions, including Malta and Curaçao.
• Police estimate Japanese users wager $8.6 billion yearly on offshore casino platforms.
• A bill banning domestic promotion of illegal online casinos is expected to pass by June 22.

Officials from Japan have requested cooperation from authorities in Canada, Costa Rica, Georgia, Malta, the Isle of Man, Anjouan Island, Curaçao, and Gibraltar. These jurisdictions oversee many of the operators offering services to Japanese users, often in the Japanese language and with yen payment options. Japan argues that this creates confusion about legality.

Although some of these platforms hold valid licenses in their home countries, Japan does not recognize them domestically. Gambling on such sites is illegal under Japanese law, even if the operators are licensed elsewhere.

Enforcement challenges remain

While Japan has taken steps against local promoters and payment processors, blocking foreign websites has proven more difficult. Many of the targeted casino platforms are accessible through mobile phones and PCs. Authorities estimate around three million Japanese residents have gambled through these sites.

A recent review of 40 popular casino platforms revealed nearly 70% were licensed in Curaçao. Only two of the websites openly stated that access from Japan was restricted. Six of them received all traffic from users located in Japan.

Bill targeting domestic promotion advances

Japan’s House of Representatives recently passed legislation that would outlaw the operation and promotion of casino websites within the country. The bill is part of broader efforts to curb gambling addiction and address legal loopholes. It is expected to pass the Upper House by the end of the current session on June 22.

Lawmakers were also influenced by recent media coverage connecting public figures, including athletes and celebrities, to online gambling activities. Once the bill becomes law, Japan plans to renew its appeal to the eight foreign jurisdictions it contacted.

The government’s urgency is tied to the upcoming MGM Osaka resort project, a $10 billion development backed by MGM Resorts International. Authorities believe strengthening legal protections and tightening controls on illegal gambling will be key to the resort’s credibility and public support.

A government spokesperson said the outreach to regulators is part of a longer-term strategy to reduce offshore gambling activity and protect Japan’s legal framework.

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