Is Japan Finally Reversing Historical Gambling Ban?

Since 1882, most forms of gambling have been banned in Japan; save for a lottery, horse racing and some motor sports. Sentiment amongst Japanese lawmakers is growing to overturn the long established ban and introduce licensed and legislated live and online gambling to the large Japanese economy.

Japanese traditional beliefs held that the ban would encourage a strong work ethic and protect a healthy sense of economy among the people. The reality is that Japanese were taking their gambling to South Korea and other gambling destinations, contributing 47% of the 1.68 million people who gambled in South Korea alone. Add to that the estimated 2,100 illegal casinos in Japan that generate 1 trillion Yen a year and Japanese legislators realized that reversing the ban could both help boost lagging tax revenues and give a boost to the ailing tourist industry.

With the established success of gambling in Macau, and more recently Singapore, Japan is now seriously considering the best way to tap this lucrative market while still providing protection for the vulnerable minority of potential gambling addicts and underage gamblers. The Japanese population of 128 million appear eager to embrace legalized gambling in Japan.