Japan is making significant strides in its crackdown against illegal online gambling, reaching out to eight countries and territories worldwide. This effort comes as Japan gears up for the opening of its very first government-sanctioned land-based casino in Osaka, expected to open its doors in late 2030.
In a strategic effort to suppress online gambling, Japan has approached several countries and territories, such as Canada, Malta, the Isle of Man, Curaçao, and Gibraltar, through diplomatic channels. The country is seeking their cooperation to restrict access to online gambling services licensed under these jurisdictions for Japanese residents. This initiative highlights Japan’s increasing worry about the influence of foreign online casinos within its borders.
Recent law enforcement activities in Japan shed light on the magnitude of illegal gambling operations affecting the country. Authorities arrested nine individuals linked to a gambling network where approximately $628.5 million had been deposited for online gambling activities. This crackdown is part of Japan’s broader strategy to eliminate unauthorized gambling, seen also in its legislative efforts. The Japanese parliament has passed new laws to tighten regulations against online casinos, showing a firm commitment to this cause.
As part of its comprehensive plan, Japan is exploring technological solutions to block access to illegal online casinos, though this raises potential challenges in implementation and effectiveness. Meanwhile, Japan’s financial regulators are calling on banks and payment service providers to join the fight against online casinos by blocking transactions related to gambling activities.
Amidst these efforts against online gambling, Japan is looking forward to the launch of MGM Osaka. This pioneering project, which marks Japan’s foray into legalized land-based gambling, is a significant development for the country. It not only offers a legal gambling venue but also promises to boost tourism and economic growth.
Japan’s request to international jurisdictions to block access to gambling services is a striking move in the global context of internet governance and regulation. It highlights the complexities of managing online behaviors across borders and sets a precedent for international cooperation in this field. As Japan braces for the introduction of legal gambling with MGM Osaka, it remains to be seen how these efforts against illegal online gambling will unfold and what impact they will have on the landscape of gambling in the country.