The State Great Khural of Mongolia has officially banned all paid prediction, betting, and online gambling activities. This decision came after the parliament approved amendments to the Law on Licensing during its spring session on March 26, 2025. The government submitted these amendments to tighten regulations on gambling-related activities.
With this new legislation, any activity involving paid prediction or betting is now illegal across the country. The law specifically prohibits organizing paid prediction or betting games both in public places and through information technology platforms. This move aims to reduce gambling-related harms and protect the public.
Moreover, the Criminal Code now treats organizing such games for profit as a criminal offense. Offenders face heavy penalties, including fines ranging from 2,700 to 14,000 basic units. In addition, courts may impose community service between 240 to 720 hours. Travel restrictions may last from six months up to a year. In the most severe cases, imprisonment of six months to three years is possible.
The paid prediction and betting ban also targets repeated misuse of financial and electronic tools. For example, using payment accounts, virtual assets, or electronic identifiers for these activities is now illegal. People caught doing this can face fines between 450 to 5,400 basic units. They may also receive community service orders or similar travel restrictions. Imprisonment for six months to one year is possible for repeat offenders.
Furthermore, anyone who promotes or solicits paid prediction, betting, or gambling now faces administrative penalties. These penalties include fines for illegal advertising and violations under the Law on Administrative Violations.
In addition, the government repealed specific tax regulations linked to gambling activities. This includes excise taxes on equipment used for paid prediction and betting, as well as provisions under the Corporate Income Tax Law and the Law on Personal Income Tax. Laws supporting small and medium enterprises in these sectors were also removed.
The State Great Khural’s Media and Public Relations Department confirmed that the new laws will come into effect following the standard legislative process. This paid prediction and betting ban marks a significant shift in Mongolia’s approach to gambling regulation.
