The updated strategy was formally adopted during a Cabinet meeting on 21 March, as part of a routine three-year review of the country’s “Basic Plan for Measures Against Gambling Addiction.”

This revision comes amid mounting concern over the proliferation of online gambling, including the use of illegal online casinos, which has prompted calls for tighter regulation and enforcement.

Recent studies have found that at least 3 million Japanese citizens use online gaming platforms, and that around 43% know they are illegal in the country.

Key elements of the new plan include enhanced measures against so-called “payment agents” — individuals and businesses that facilitate financial transactions for customers placing bets on unlicensed online platforms.

Authorities intend to crack down on these intermediaries, who operate in a legal grey area by enabling access to overseas gambling services that are not licensed for use in Japan.

In parallel, the government will strengthen its oversight of affiliates, those who earn income through promoting online casinos via advertising and referral links.

The crackdown extends beyond enforcement and includes new preventative measures, particularly targeted at younger demographics.

Social media platforms will be used to spread awareness about the illegality of online casinos and the risks associated with gambling addiction.

The government also plans to encourage companies to implement policies that restrict the advertising of online gambling services, especially through digital channels.

Blame it on Covid

A growing concern within the plan involves the use of online platforms for gambling on horse and bicycle racing.

The Covid-19 pandemic significantly increased online participation in these forms of gambling, leading to concerns about financial overreach by users.

In response, the new measures will include discussions on setting pre-defined maximum purchase amounts for betting tickets bought online.

Additionally, the government is considering a ban on the use of deferred payment methods such as credit cards for gambling purchases.

This widespread participation has alarmed lawmakers and public health officials, who view it as a growing social problem with significant mental health and financial implications.

On 13 March, an emergency meeting was convened by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s research committee focused on cybercrime. During the session, lawmakers endorsed a policy direction to amend the gambling addiction policies.

The proposed amendments would aim to ban online advertisements and so-called “reach sites” — websites that serve as gateways to online casinos.

The committee reaffirmed that online casinos remain illegal under Japanese law, a point that contradicts the widespread misperception that some of these services operate legally.

The new policy measures are being introduced at a time when Japan is preparing to expand its regulated gambling sector through the introduction of integrated resorts.

MGM Resorts is set to begin construction of its MGM Osaka resort next month, following approval from Japanese authorities.

The Osaka project marks Japan’s first foray into large-scale land-based casinos, a move aimed at boosting tourism and regional economic development. However, it has faced delays and is now expected to be ready around 2030.