Japan recorded a record number of enforcement actions related to online gambling in 2025, reflecting increased scrutiny of offshore betting activity accessed from within the country.
Police took action against 317 individuals during 2025 for suspected involvement in online gambling, according to data from the National Police Agency. The figure marks the highest level since records began in 2018 and represents an increase of 38 cases compared with 2024.
Authorities attributed the rise primarily to a growing number of individuals using online casino platforms independently, rather than through organized groups.
While online gambling is legal in some jurisdictions, Japanese law prohibits participation from within the country, even when using foreign based platforms. Under the Penal Code, placing bets through overseas online casinos constitutes a criminal offense if conducted domestically.
An official from the National Police Agency said: "Although more people recognize it as illegal, enough measures have yet to be taken." The official added: "We'll continue working to create an environment in which people are not allowed to use or simply cannot use online casinos."
Japan’s restrictive stance on gambling extends to sports betting. In December, 2025, Lawmakers reaffirmed their opposition to legalizing the vertical, citing concerns over integrity risks and the broader social impact.
Members of the parliamentary group also pointed to risks such as match fixing and fraud, arguing that introducing sports betting could undermine trust in professional competitions. The group indicated that, despite ongoing global expansion of regulated markets, Japan is not currently considering changes to its legal framework.
Tsuyoshi Takagaki has recently been named Japan Cash Machine Co’s second Representative Director
