Japan targets illegal online gambling as baseball stars face prosecution
Japan is cracking down on illegal online gambling as several top baseball players face prosecution for using offshore casinos. The government is also pushing ahead with plans to open three major casino resorts, the first of which is expected by 2027. Meanwhile, concerns over gambling addiction—especially among younger people—are growing. Japanese authorities estimate that around 3.4 million people gamble regularly, with billions wagered through illegal offshore sites. The Council for Sports Ecosystem Promotion reports that as much as $45 billion is bet annually on these unregulated platforms. Baseball and soccer dominate the market, accounting for $3.7 billion and $2.3 billion in wagers respectively.
The Diet is now close to passing a bill that would allow stricter action against offshore gambling operators. While Japan traditionally frowns upon gambling, demand remains high, leading to a push for legal alternatives. The planned integrated resorts aim to bring some of this activity under regulation. Recent scandals involving professional baseball players using illegal online casinos have added urgency to the issue. The government is particularly focused on tackling addiction risks, especially among younger gamblers.
The new legislation would give authorities stronger tools to block illegal gambling sites. With legal casino resorts on the horizon, Japan is balancing economic opportunities with efforts to curb problem gambling. The outcome will shape how the country manages its vast but largely underground betting market.
