Japan shuts down momentum for sports betting reform.

Japanese lawmakers have moved decisively to block any plans to legalise sports betting, reinforcing the country’s long-standing prohibition on privately operated gambling markets. A suprapartisan group of Diet members focused on sports promotion unanimously agreed to oppose legalisation, warning that it could undermine sporting integrity and expose athletes to criminal influence.

The group is chaired by former prime minister Taro Aso, a senior figure within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. The decision was confirmed during a directors’ meeting at the Diet Building, where lawmakers also agreed to intensify efforts against match-fixing and sports-related fraud. A new task force, led by former justice minister Takashi Yamashita, will examine potential legislative responses in the coming months.

Under Japan’s Penal Code, gambling is limited to publicly operated activities such as horse, bicycle, boat, and motorcycle racing. Sports betting through overseas websites remains illegal, yet authorities estimate Japanese users wagered at least ¥6.5 trillion on offshore platforms in 2024. Lawmakers and sports bodies warn that this growth has heightened the risk of bribery, organised crime involvement, and manipulation of results.

Rather than pursuing regulation, the government is focusing on enforcement. Measures include cracking down on promoters and affiliates, restricting gambling advertisements, and improving public awareness around illegal betting and addiction. Authorities are also considering technical blocks on overseas gambling sites and expanding international cooperation.

While Japan continues to examine global integrity frameworks such as the Macolin Convention, lawmakers have made clear that legalising sports betting is not under consideration. The priority, they say, is safeguarding athletes, competition credibility, and public trust in sport amid growing cross-border gambling risks.