Japanese lawmakers recently convened to discuss the possibility of legalizing sports betting, including esports betting, but decided to maintain the country’s strict prohibition on most forms of sports gambling. Currently, only government-sanctioned betting on boat races, horse racing, cycling, and motorbike racing is allowed. The interparty group, led by former Prime Minister Taro Aso, emphasized stronger enforcement against illegal offshore gambling rather than legal reforms, citing concerns over the integrity of sports and the risks posed by illegal betting spreading beyond Japan’s borders.

Despite the ban, illegal gambling remains widespread, with Japanese bettors wagering an estimated ¥6.5 trillion ($43 billion) on overseas sites last year. Authorities have actively cracked down on individuals involved in illegal gambling, including arrests of students and celebrities. In response, companies like Capcom and esports teams have partnered with police to launch anti-gambling campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the legal restrictions. These efforts underscore that Japan’s stance on sports and esports betting is unlikely to change in the near future.