asia/RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING

Offshore gambling in Japan results in significant debt levels.

Japan estimates that approximately 3.37 million people gamble online at offshore casinos. One out of every three individuals who start playing for the first time find themselves in debt within a week.

Written by Casino House Group Editorial Team

Published on April 21, 2025

Summary

Japan estimates that approximately 3.37 million people gamble online at offshore casinos.
One out of every three individuals who start playing for the first time find themselves in debt within a week.
Japan should enhance its support for individuals facing problem gambling and intensify its efforts to regulate social media advertising.

Japan has not yet established regulations for its online casino industry, but the country is set to launch its first integrated resort by 2030. This project, led by MGM Resorts in partnership with local businesses in Osaka, is anticipated to become one of the most promising and profitable casino ventures globally.

Japanese players end up in debt when they play at offshore casinos

Japan is currently grappling with issues related to its online casino players, whose numbers have reached approximately 3.37 million, according to recent data from the National Police Agency. The challenge is not solely the number of participants in the offshore gambling market but rather the alarming trend of many players quickly accruing debts to loan sharks, friends, and family. This information comes from the Society Concerned about Gambling Addiction, based in Tokyo, which has recently published findings based on member surveys. The society gathered data by asking members whether they participated in online gambling. Those who confirmed participation were then asked if they had accumulated debt and how soon after starting to gamble they needed to borrow money. Of those surveyed, 30.1% of online casino gamblers reported needing additional money within a week, while 33.3% required extra funds within a month. Moreover, 11.8% borrowed money within six months, and 9.7% did so within three months.

Government can do more to limit the reach of illegal advertising and increase support

Noriko Tanaka, the society's representative director, has expressed concerns about the lack of awareness regarding the unregulated nature of offshore gambling sites. She argued that Japan could improve its efforts to educate players about the risks of gambling and provide better support for those already facing gambling problems. The society's survey revealed that most players began gambling after encountering advertisements on social media. This suggests that the government could take steps to restrict such advertisements.