Japan has beckoned that it is interested in uprooting illegal online gambling, with more research into the reach of the problem now becoming available
Japan has an estimated population of 3.4 million gamblers, but the implications of such a diverse crowd are many. For one, as much as $45 billion may be wagered offshore and at illegal gambling websites, a new study suggests.
Gamblers in Japan Spend Billions on Offshore Gambling Sites
The Council for Sports Ecosystem Promotion has published a fresh report in which it tried to pinpoint the economic impact of offshore gambling. According to CSEP, the above-stated figure is accurate, with billions wagered beyond the Japanese borders.
CSEP was even able to provide a specific breakdown by individual vertical and market, arguing that baseball generated $3.7 billion of the total wagering handle, with $2.3 billion spent on soccer.
To reach these figures, the researchers have requested data from major Internet Service Providers, as well as consulted with counterparties overseas, embarking on a monumental task to identify the exact amount of sports wagers.
Japan is enjoying a renaissance in gambling, as the country has generally maintained a dim view of the activity but has nevertheless seen strong demand among the populace.
In fact, a spate of recent cases involving top-flight baseball players caught the public eye with the athletes now facing prosecution for their alleged use of online casinos.
While most jurisdictions do not go after citizens for simply playing at an online casino, Japan is bucking the trend trying to send a clear message that actions have consequences. This comes at a time when the country is also doubling down on nits original plan to introduce three integrated casino resorts, the first of one should be arriving by 2027 – the MGM Osaka.
Two other projects are also in the works. There has also been a growth in gambling addiction among younger people, which the Japanese government is keen to address. The Diet is also close to passing a bill that would enable authorities to go after online casino providers and expand executive powers to act against offshore operators.
Huge Demand for Gambling, But No Willingness for Legalization
Although the report points towards a strong demand for sports gambling and online casinos, there is little willingness among professional sports in Japan, as well as among politicians and society in general, for the legalization of Internet gambling.
Left without any options to gamble legally online from home, many Japanese will continue to turn to offshore gambling sites, not least because those will continue targeting local customers regardless.
If the price is for some people getting caught and paying a steep personal and career price, most stakeholders seem to be alright with this.
