About Us
Contact Us
The continent of Asia is a diverse land, and the gambling laws of its nations are just as varied. While some regions embrace the long-standing Asian passion for games like baccarat and mahjong, others adhere to traditional Islamic law (Sharia) and prohibit all forms of gambling. Most are willing to look the other way for individual players, although a handful of nations pursue private citizens with the sort of zeal usually reserved for career criminals.
In the following section, we’ll list every Asian nation (in order of population) and give a brief rundown of their stance regarding online gambling. In case you’re planning to play illegally in one of these countries, we’ll also provide information on whether or not they’re in the habit of prosecuting individual offenders.
100%
up to €122
100%
up to $200
Since gaming laws and legislation can change rapidly, it’s always a good idea to consult a lawyer before launching a long-term career as an Internet gambler. While I’ve made a good faith effort to present the most accurate information possible, there’s a chance that some of these facts may have changed by the time you read this. The best way to stay safe is to stay informed.
While gambling is an integral part of Chinese culture, most forms of the hobby are illegal on the mainland (with the lottery being the main exception). Hong Kong is also restrictive when it comes to gambling, although neither region is in the habit of tracking down and prosecuting citizens who play online. Most offshore gambling sites are blocked.The self-governing Chinese island of Macau is much more permissive. Not coincidentally, they are currently the single largest gambling destination on the planet. Both visitors and locals should be able to access online card rooms and casinos without any problems.
Indian laws are vague regarding online casinos, although most states frown on any form of the hobby. It’s outright illegal in the state of Maharashtra, while the region known as Sikkim allows gambling and even issues licenses for online businesses.
No form of gambling is legal in this nation. Individuals caught violating the law face up to 10 years imprisonment and even the possibility of being publicly beaten.
Gambling is outlawed in this Muslim state. While some online casinos may still offer services to residents, anyone caught may face a small fine and up to one year in jail.
The Public Gambling Act of 1867 made gambling illegal, and the only exceptions are horse racing, lotteries, and raffles. Those who engage in online gambling are sometimes prosecuted.
Despite the fact that their citizens spend hundreds of billions of dollars on pachinko each year, the Japanese government doesn’t allow gambling. However, residents can easily access offshore gaming sites without fear of prosecution.
One of the fastest growing gaming markets in Asia, the Philippines allow online gambling through their state-owned casino, sportsbooks, and bingo sites. In 2014, legal gambling in the nation accounted for $2.05 billion. Sic bo is among the most popular choices for gamblers within the country.
The government’s ban on gambling has created a large underground for the hobby, although the state-sponsored lottery is still allowed. Citizens can get in trouble if caught using an illegal offshore site, and the most common penalty is a fine.
Due to Islamic sharia, all forms of gambling are outlawed. Citizens may face punishment if caught gaming online, but the government isn’t going out of their way to round up such individuals.
Casinos were banned in Turkey in 1998, and that was followed by the prohibition of online gambling in 2006. That hasn’t stopped residents, however, and a 2009 report showed that a full quarter of Betsson’s profits came from Turkish players. The government seems determined to prevail, though, with proposed deterrents including larger monetary fines and longer jail sentences for offenders.
