Online Gambling on the Rise
A recent survey by Japan’s National Police Agency (NPA) shows that over 3.37 million people in Japan are gambling online. This marks a sharp increase, even though online gambling is illegal in the country. The total value of bets placed online has reached 1.24 trillion yen (8.39 billion USD).
Younger Generations Driving the Trend
The survey, conducted with over 27,000 participants aged 15 to 79, revealed that 3.5% had gambled online. Most online gamblers are in their 20s and 30s, indicating a strong shift toward younger users.
Social Media’s Powerful Influence
Social media has played a major role in promoting online gambling. Influencers often direct followers to free casino games, which later lead to real-money gambling. This strategy has proven effective, especially among younger audiences.
Fast Debt and Addiction
A Tokyo-based support group discovered alarming trends. 30% of new online gamblers went into debt within just a week, while 33% followed within a month. These findings highlight the addictive nature of online gambling platforms.
Many Are Unaware of Legal Risks
The NPA also found that 43.5% of respondents didn’t know that using offshore casinos is illegal. While some public gambling like horse racing is allowed in Japan, using foreign gambling sites remains prohibited.
Top Sites and Their Locations
Popular platforms include Vera&John, Casinosecret, and Queen Casino. These are licensed in Curacao and Costa Rica, but not in Japan. About 70% of the top 40 casinos visited by Japanese users are based in Curacao.
Affiliates Fuel the Market
Japanese businesses often act as affiliates for these offshore casinos. Through online promotions, they help bring more traffic to illegal sites. This has further boosted the market and caught the attention of local authorities.
Government Action and Future Plans
To fight this trend, the NPA plans to educate the public and increase awareness about gambling laws. Experts are calling for stronger regulations, including blocking access to offshore platforms. There is also a growing need for support systems to help those affected.
Japan is preparing to open its first integrated resort casino in Osaka by 2030. However, the government must first control the spread of illegal online gambling to protect public safety and health.
