Japan has formally appealed to eight foreign governments to restrict online casino access for its citizens, in an effort to curb cross-border illegal gambling.
Japan has formally appealed to eight foreign governments to restrict online casino access for its citizens, in an effort to curb cross-border illegal gambling.
In June 2025, Tokyo sent official requests to Canada, Costa Rica, Georgia, Malta, Anjouan (part of the Comoros), Curaçao, the Isle of Man, and Gibraltar. These jurisdictions are widely recognized as major online gambling hubs. However, it remains unclear whether any action has been taken in response.
Billions Flowing Into Offshore Gambling
Despite Japan’s ban on residents engaging in overseas online casinos, millions continue to access foreign platforms. A study by the Sports Ecosystem Promotion Committee estimated that Japanese users wagered ¥6.45 trillion (€42 billion) on offshore sports betting in 2024 alone, highlighting the scale of the unregulated gray market.
The National Police Agency further reported that about 3.37 million Japanese citizens have tried online casinos, with 1.97 million active users spending an estimated ¥1.24 trillion (€8 billion) annually. On average, each user loses around ¥630,000 (€4,050) per year.
Awareness of the law remains low. While 56–60% of users know such gambling is illegal, 40% remain unaware. Alarmingly, nearly 60% of players reported gambling addiction issues, with some borrowing money from lenders, friends, or relatives to continue betting.
Enforcement Challenges with VPNs
Following scandals involving athletes and celebrities, Japan’s parliament passed stricter anti-online gambling measures. But enforcement is hindered by widespread VPN usage and fake accounts, which make it difficult to identify Japanese players.
