A new survey conducted by Japan’s National Police Agency has revealed alarming insights into online casino usage among Japanese residents, highlighting growing concerns over gambling addiction and related financial issues.
According to the findings, approximately 60% of online casino users in Japan admitted to experiencing symptoms of gambling addiction, and over 40% reported having accumulated debt due to gambling.
Out of the 500 respondents surveyed by authorities, 67.6% acknowledged their gambling habits had become problematic. Demographically, users aged between 20 and 30 contributed most significantly to gambling expenditure, with those in their 30s accounting for 37.1% of total bets placed annually—estimated at ¥1.24 trillion (around US$8.36 billion).
Teenagers were also significantly involved, with 38.9% of respondents aged 10-19 indicating they began gambling to engage socially with peers. Additionally, 22.2% of teenagers cited peer influence as their reason for starting.
The survey also highlighted financial consequences, with about 15.8% of users losing between ¥10,000 and ¥30,000 in a single day, while a further 14.4% suffered daily losses exceeding ¥100,000.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi emphasized the illegality of online gambling within Japan, stating at a recent press conference, “Even if it is legally operated overseas, gambling from within Japan remains a criminal act. We urge anyone currently participating to cease immediately.”
Authorities estimate approximately ¥1.24 trillion is wagered annually from Japan through overseas online casinos, prompting calls for stronger measures to address illegal gambling and addiction concerns.
