South east Gambling Laws for 50 South h East asian Countries

South east Gambling Laws for 50 South h East asian Countries

Asia’s Internet Gambling Laws

Gaming laws and legislation are subject to rapid change. It’s a good idea for anyone considering launching an Internet gambling career. Although I have made every effort to provide accurate information, some facts might have changed since the time you are reading this. Staying informed is the best way to be safe. We take look at the gambling laws of 50 countries within the Asia Pacific region.

1 Afghanistan
🇦🇫
In Afghanistan, the Taliban’s relinquishment of control hasn’t lessened the rigor of anti-gambling regulations. The nation, adhering to Islamic law that deems all forms of gambling haram (forbidden), still enforces stringent prohibitions. While engaging in offshore casino activities doesn’t typically result in penalties for the citizens, the government’s efforts to obstruct online gambling are notable. They have actively blocked Internet Service Provider (ISP) addresses, cutting off access to numerous gambling sites. Additionally, stringent measures are in place to thwart the outflow of funds for gambling purposes. The effectiveness of these restrictions in curbing Afghans’ participation in online gambling, however, remains ambiguous.
2 Armenia
🇦🇲
Armenia’s legal landscape warmly embraces online casinos, as the nation’s legislation permits their operation. This regulation extends to both domestic and offshore companies. Governed by strict rules, these online gambling platforms must adhere to rigorous standards, ensuring fair and responsible practices. Armenian gamblers enjoy a diverse array of virtual betting options, from casino games to sports wagers and lotteries. Interestingly, international gambling entities also cater to Armenian players. However, these global operators function without the Armenian government’s official endorsement or regulatory oversight.
3 Azerbaijan
🇦🇿
In Azerbaijan, the gambling landscape presents a complex picture. State management applies to certain forms, like the lottery, while others fall under strict prohibition. Specifically, online gambling stands as an illegal activity, with the government actively blocking access to international gambling websites. This stance aligns with Islamic law, under which Azerbaijan operates, classifying all gambling as haram (forbidden). Despite these clear prohibitions, numerous casinos and card rooms persist in serving local customers. Additionally, the Azerbaijani government has deployed strategies to restrict financial transactions aimed at gambling outside the country.
4 Bahrain
🇧🇭
Bahrain’s stance on gambling is unequivocal; under its 1976 penal code, all gambling activities are illegal. This prohibition extends to online platforms, with the government actively working to restrict access to foreign gambling websites. In line with Islamic law, which governs Bahrain, any form of gambling is deemed haram (forbidden). Despite these stringent laws, online gamers within Bahrain have not faced prosecution. Moreover, the Bahraini authorities have put measures in place to curb the outflow of funds for gambling, reinforcing their commitment to upholding these legal and religious principles.
5 Bangladesh
🇧🇩
The 1867 Public Gambling Act in Bangladesh established a blanket ban on gambling, carving out only a few exceptions for horse racing, lotteries, and raffles. Despite the theoretical possibility of prosecution, online gamblers using foreign casinos from the privacy of their homes typically avoid legal consequences. This practice persists even though online gambling remains illegal under Bangladeshi law. The government, reinforcing its adherence to Islamic law, which deems gambling haram (forbidden), has actively worked to obstruct access to international gambling websites. Additionally, measures are in place to deter the transfer of funds abroad for gambling, reflecting the country’s commitment to these legal and religious principles.
6 Bhutan
🇧🇹
Bhutan’s stance on gambling is clear-cut: the state lottery stands as the sole legal form, with all other gambling activities facing a ban. Violating this law carries substantial consequences, including potential prison sentences ranging from one month to a year for first-time offenders. The government has declared online gambling illegal, actively working to block foreign gambling websites. This approach aligns with Bhutan’s cultural and religious values, which view any form of gambling as inappropriate. Despite these stringent laws, the effectiveness of these measures in deterring Bhutanese citizens from engaging in online gambling remains uncertain.
7 Brunei
🇧🇳
In Brunei, the government maintains a stringent prohibition on all forms of gambling, aligning with the nation’s adherence to Islamic law, which deems gambling haram (forbidden). This ban encompasses online gambling as well, with the government taking active measures to restrict access to foreign gambling websites. Violation of these laws can lead to severe penalties, including substantial fines and imprisonment for up to six months, even for online gambling activities. Additionally, the Bruneian authorities have implemented strategies to curb the outflow of funds for gambling, further reinforcing the country’s commitment to these religious and legal standards.
8 Cambodia
🇰🇭
Cambodia’s 1996 Law on Suppression of Gambling sets clear boundaries: it disallows residents from participating in illegal gaming, including internet-based activities. However, the country does offer a variety of national lotteries and a thriving land-based casino sector that attracts tourists. The Cambodian government, meanwhile, legalizes and regulates online gambling. It grants licenses to various operators, mandating adherence to stringent regulations aimed at ensuring fair and responsible gambling practices.

Cambodian players have access to a broad spectrum of online gambling activities. This includes options like sports betting, casino games, and participating in lotteries. Additionally, numerous international online gambling providers operate in Cambodia. These entities, while offering their services to Cambodian players, do so without the licensing or regulatory approval of the Cambodian government.

9 China
🇨🇳
Although gambling is a part of Chinese culture and tradition, it is illegal to engage in most forms of gambling on the mainland. The exception being the lottery. Hong Kong has strict rules regarding gambling. However, neither the region nor Hong Kong are known for prosecuting online gamblers. Many offshore gambling sites are blocked. .

Macau stands out as a Special Administrative Region of China, known for its liberal stance on gambling. It’s not by chance that it’s the world’s largest gambling hub. Here, both visitors and locals easily access online casinos and card rooms. The Macanese government has legalized and tightly regulates online gambling. It issues licenses to various operators who are then bound by strict regulations to ensure fairness and responsible gambling.

The range of online gambling options in Macau is extensive, encompassing sports betting, casino games, and lotteries. Additionally, several international online gambling operators are active in Macau. These entities serve local players but operate without the licensing or regulation of the Macanese government.

41 Taipei, China
China Taipei
Taiwan’s Criminal Code firmly prohibits most gambling activities, with state-run lotteries being a notable exception. In 2003, Taiwanese residents found over 2,000 internet casinos, sportsbooks, and card rooms within their reach. Since then, the government has embarked on an extensive campaign to both block these sites and educate its citizens on the risks of unlicensed gaming. Online gambling in Taiwan remains illegal, and vigorous efforts are made to restrict access to foreign gambling websites. While general gambling is largely banned, Taiwan does permit a select number of state-run lotteries and some officially sanctioned sports lotteries and horse racing events. Furthermore, measures have been implemented to curtail the flow of funds out of the country for gambling purposes, reflecting the government’s commitment to these regulations.
10 Cyprus
🇨🇾
Under the Cyprus Betting Law of 2012, the legal scope of online gambling is confined to sports betting, a domain overseen by the state. This law reflects Cyprus’s approach to regulating online gambling. The government grants licenses to entities wishing to provide online gambling services, with a stringent regulatory framework in place to ensure fairness and responsible gaming.

In Cyprus, enthusiasts of online gambling have access to a variety of activities, notably sports betting, casino games, and lotteries. Additionally, numerous international online gambling operators cater to Cypriot players. However, these international entities operate without the licensing or regulatory supervision of the Cypriot government, existing in a distinct category from state-sanctioned options.

11 Georgia
🇬🇪
Georgia’s Lottery and Gambling Bill authorizes both online and land-based gaming, contingent on operators obtaining state licenses. This framework underscores Georgia’s legal and regulatory approach to online gambling. The government issues these licenses, mandating that operators comply with rigorous rules to guarantee fairness and responsible gaming practices.

In Georgia, the online gambling scene is vibrant and diverse. Enthusiasts have a wide array of options, including sports betting, casino games, and lotteries. Moreover, a variety of international online gambling platforms serve Georgian players. These international operators, while active in Georgia, operate independently of Georgian government licensing or regulatory oversight.

12 India
🇮🇳
Indian legislation regarding online casinos exhibits a degree of ambiguity. Many states have imposed a ban on this leisure activity, with Maharashtra strictly enforcing this prohibition. In contrast, Sikkim legalizes online gambling and is recognized for its more open stance, even issuing licenses to online enterprises. The overall legal landscape of online gambling in India is intricate. While the country generally prohibits gambling, there are exceptions with some forms of gambling being legal in certain states.

In specific regions like Sikkim and Nagaland, online sports betting is legal and falls under governmental regulation. Residents in these areas can engage in online sports betting through officially licensed and regulated operators. On the other hand, online casino games and most other online gambling forms are usually illegal across India, but there are notable exceptions. For instance, online rummy, a widely enjoyed card game in India, is deemed a game of skill and is legally permissible in some states.

13 Indonesia
🇮🇩
In Indonesia, gambling faces an absolute ban, reflecting the country’s adherence to Islamic law, which categorizes such activities as haram (forbidden). The Indonesian government enforces this prohibition rigorously. Violators risk severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to a decade and the possibility of public corporal punishment. This strict stance extends to online gambling as well, with the government actively blocking foreign gambling websites. Additionally, measures are in place to deter financial transactions intended for gambling, further emphasizing the government’s commitment to preventing any form of gambling within the nation.
14 Iran
🇮🇷
All forms of gambling are prohibited by Islamic Sharia. While citizens may be punished if they are caught playing online, the government won’t go out of its way to arrest them. This jurisdiction is not recommended. Before placing any wagers, ensure that you are at least 18 years old and have the legal authority to do so. In Iran, online gambling is illegal and the government has taken steps to block access to foreign online gambling websites. Gambling of any kind is considered haram (forbidden) under Islamic law, and Iran is an Islamic country. The government has also implemented measures to prevent money from leaving the country to be used for gambling purposes.
15 Iraq
🇮🇶
Under Islamic law, which Iraq adheres to, gambling in all its forms is strictly forbidden, being classified as haram. This prohibition extends to the digital realm, where the Iraqi government has exerted considerable effort to block access to most online casinos. Despite these restrictions, Iraqi citizens engaging in gambling through offshore sites rarely face prosecution. The government’s measures are not just limited to blocking websites; they also include steps to restrict financial outflows intended for gambling purposes, highlighting a comprehensive approach to upholding this aspect of Islamic law.
16 Israel
🇮🇱
In Israel, the state legally sanctions and regulates online gambling, encompassing internet lotteries, sports betting, and casinos. The government assumes a key role, issuing licenses to operators and enforcing strict compliance with regulations designed to promote fairness and responsibility in gambling.

Israeli players enjoy a broad spectrum of online gambling activities. Options available to them include engaging in sports betting, playing casino games, and participating in lottery draws. Additionally, international online gambling entities operate within Israel, offering their services to local players. However, these international operators function outside the purview of Israeli licensing and regulatory frameworks.

17 Japan
🇯🇵
Despite the Japanese government’s prohibition on gambling, it’s an open secret that they invest heavily in pachinko, a form of recreational gaming. While residents are technically barred from gambling, accessing offshore gambling sites is common and generally unprosecuted. In Japan, online gambling falls under the umbrella of illegality, with the government actively working to impede access to international gambling websites. Exceptions to the gambling ban are limited to several government-operated lotteries and authorized betting on sports and horse racing. Further emphasizing its stance, the government has taken steps to restrict financial outflows intended for gambling, aiming to keep such expenditures within national boundaries.
18 Jordan
🇯🇴
In Jordan, an Islamic nation, the Hashemite Kingdom’s Constitution strictly prohibits all gambling forms, aligning with Islamic law that deems such activities haram (forbidden). Despite this, players from Muslim-majority countries can still access online casinos. The Jordanian government, upholding this prohibition, has taken significant steps to restrict access to international online gambling sites. Additionally, measures have been implemented to curb the outflow of funds for gambling, reinforcing the country’s commitment to these religious and legal principles.
19 Kazakhstan
🇰🇿
Kazakhstan’s legal framework allows land-based gambling exclusively in two designated regions, as stated by the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan. In contrast, the status of online betting remains unregulated and is widely assumed to be outside the bounds of legality. However, within Kazakhstan, online gambling operates legally under government oversight. The Kazakhstani government issues licenses to various online gambling service providers, subjecting them to strict regulations that ensure both fairness and responsible gambling practices.

Kazakhstani residents have the opportunity to engage in a diverse array of online gambling activities. This includes participating in sports betting, casino games, and lotteries. Additionally, a number of international online gambling platforms are available to Kazakhstani players. It’s noteworthy, however, that these international operators provide their services without obtaining licenses or regulation from the Kazakhstani government.

20 Kuwait
🇰🇼
In Kuwait, where 85% of the population practices Islam, gambling is not sanctioned by law. This aligns with the broader Islamic principle that deems all forms of gambling haram (forbidden). Consistent with this, Kuwait’s government strictly prohibits online gambling and actively blocks access to international gambling websites. Furthermore, the authorities have instituted measures to inhibit financial transactions aimed at gambling outside the country, reinforcing their commitment to uphold Islamic law and national regulations against gambling.
21 Kyrgyzstan
🇰🇬
Kyrgyzstan’s approach to online gambling is one of legality and regulation, overseen by the government. Authorities issue licenses to various operators eager to provide online gambling services. These operators must adhere to a stringent set of rules and regulations, ensuring that gambling remains fair and responsible.

In this Central Asian nation, a plethora of online gambling options is available to players. This includes engaging in sports betting, playing casino games, and entering lottery draws. Additionally, numerous international online gambling platforms operate in Kyrgyzstan, catering to its players. However, it’s important to note that these global operators do so without the specific licensing or regulatory approval of the Kyrgyzstani government.

22 Laos
🇱🇦
In Laos, the legal landscape for gambling is distinctly demarcated. While the country permits gambling within certain economic areas, it firmly excludes online gaming from this allowance. The law is particularly strict with operators who breach these regulations, facing prosecution. However, individual players often escape legal scrutiny.

The Laotian government’s stance on online gambling is one of outright prohibition. Efforts to block access to foreign gambling websites are a testament to this policy. While general gambling is largely banned, Laos makes exceptions for state-controlled lotteries, some sanctioned sports betting, and horse racing. Additionally, the government has taken steps to prevent the outflow of funds from Laos for gambling activities, highlighting its commitment to these regulations.

23 Lebanon
🇱🇧
In Lebanon, the government administers online lottery services, yet stands firm against offshore casinos, frequently blocking and banning them. The country’s stance on online gambling is clear: it’s illegal. This policy aligns with Islamic law, which governs Lebanon and categorizes all gambling as haram (forbidden). To reinforce this, the Lebanese government not only restricts access to foreign gambling websites but also takes measures to inhibit financial transactions intended for gambling outside its borders. This approach reflects Lebanon’s commitment to upholding its legal and religious principles regarding gambling.
24 Malaysia
🇲🇾
Malaysian online gambling is very popular, despite some restrictions. This guide will help you find the best online gambling sites in Malaysia. Continue reading to learn more about the best gambling sites in Malaysia, as well as how to get ongoing bonuses and generous welcome bonuses. Online gambling is growing in Malaysia. Online gambling Malaysia sites is becoming more popular and people are increasingly gambling online.
25 Maldives
🇲🇻
The 2008 Constitution of the Maldives unequivocally outlaws all gambling forms. Yet, in practice, Maldivian citizens and tourists seem to navigate this prohibition without legal repercussions, particularly in the realm of offshore online gambling. Despite the constitutional ban, there’s a lack of concrete evidence indicating any legal action against those engaging in such activities. Thus, participating in online casinos, especially those based offshore, is a common practice among both locals and visitors in the Maldives, seemingly unimpeded by the legal constraints.
26 Mongolia
🇲🇳
Mongolia’s legal framework for gambling presents a contrast: while the state lottery operates within legal bounds, other gambling forms face prohibition. Notably, this doesn’t extend to online casinos, which exist in a regulatory void. The Mongolian government, however, actively regulates online gambling. It grants licenses to operators who must adhere to stringent rules ensuring fairness and responsible gambling.

In this landscape, Mongolian players have access to a diverse array of online gambling options. These include casino games, sports betting, and lotteries. In addition to local operators, a number of international online gambling platforms also serve Mongolian players. Yet, these global entities operate without the Mongolian government’s licensing or regulatory oversight.

27 Myanmar In Myanmar, the government maintains a firm prohibition on most forms of gambling, the only exceptions being a handful of state-sanctioned lotteries and certain approved sports and horse race betting activities. Despite the broader ban, online gambling, particularly on offshore casino sites, is a different story. Here, Myanmar’s authorities do not actively prosecute individual players who gamble in the privacy of their homes. At the same time, the government has made concerted efforts to restrict access to foreign online gambling platforms, underscoring its stance against the general practice of gambling. This nuanced approach reflects Myanmar’s unique legal landscape regarding gambling activities.
28 Nepal Tourists can legally gamble on land, but residents are not allowed to participate. However, they can still visit illegal offshore casinos. Individuals are not prosecuted for these infractions.
29 Kingdom of North Korea
🇰🇵⚠️ North Korea is a brutal dictatorship and you should stay away at all cost.
North Korea has no general internet access and is not an interesting market for any online casino. restricts internet access and monitors it closely. Many residents can’t access the internet, and those who do will be unable to find gambling ISPs blocked. The penalties for violating the law can be severe and include fines, imprisonment and even death, plus the death of your family three generations back. We are talking some serious Throne of Bones kingdom with unlimited control.
30 Oman The Sultanate of Oman has made gambling illegal in the entire country by Royal Decree N7/74. The government actively blocks access to offshore casinos to prevent them from operating.
31 Pakistan This Muslim state bans gambling. Although some online casinos still provide services for residents, those caught could face a small penalty and up to one-year imprisonment.
32 Palestine This region was once home to the largest legal gambling. However, most casinos in this state accept players from this country and there is no evidence that gambling addicts are being prosecuted.
33 Philippines The Philippines is one of Asia’s fastest-growing gaming markets. They allow online gambling through their state-owned casinos, sportsbooks and bingo sites. The country’s legal gambling industry was worth $2.05 billion in 2014. Sic bo is a popular choice for gamblers in the country.
34 Qatar In 1971, Bill 14 made gambling illegal. Later legislation expanded this law to Internet gaming. Although players are often forgotten, anyone running an online casino could face a fine or imprisonment.
35 Russia ⚠️ NO GO ZONE
Z
Russia has turned into a rogue state during the past years, and we can only advice to stay away from it. Make it big in Russia and you will be assassinated by a radioactive uranium drink at any time, dying a horrible death over weaks. Visa and Mastercard, and even Unionpay has suspended their services in Russia, and cryptos are banned.
36 Saudi Arabia Gambling is illegal in all forms, and the country routinely blocks gambling websites. There is no evidence to suggest that anyone has been charged with playing online.
37 Singapore Online wagers cannot be placed by any non-profit organization, as per the Remote Gambling Act of 2015. Virtual casinos offshore are not allowed to advertise their services or offer them to residents. Many have even abandoned the market. Many other sites have been blocked.
38 South Korea Online gambling is illegal. However, sports betting is allowed in certain situations. Online gambling is legal and citizens are not prosecuted. The most popular casinos in the Philippines, which support Korean language, are the closest. Empire777 is one example. Foreigners can go into land based casinos and gamble without any problems. Locals need to gamble online since they are not permitted to play at the state-run land based casinos.
38 Sri Lanka Most forms of gambling are now regulated by the government thanks to the Casino Business Act. Although regulations regarding online gambling are not yet clear, virtual casinos accept customers from this country.
39 Syria Another example of an Islamic country that bans gambling is this. Many gaming sites are blocked and residents’ Internet activity is monitored.
40 Taijikistan Gambling was once legal in Tajikistan, but the Criminal Code of Tajikistan has made it illegal. However, there is no evidence that players are being prosecuted for visiting casinos offshore.
42 Thailand Online players can play the national lottery or wager on horses at the track. All other activities are illegal. However, online gamblers will not be charged. This means that online gamblers can continue to play from their homes on gambling websites other than Thailand.
43 Timor-Leste Gambling is now illegal under a 2013 law, with the exception of the state-run lotteries. It is not known if ISPs have been blocked. Gamblers should be able to still play at the online casino they choose.
45 Turkey In 1998, Turkey banned casinos. Then in 2006, online gambling was prohibited in Turkey. However, residents have not been stopped. A 2009 report revealed that 25% of Betsson profits were generated by Turkish players. However, the government appears determined to win, and has proposed deterrents such as higher monetary fines or longer prison sentences for offenders. According to our information, there are still casinos that accept Turkish players.
46 Turkmenistan Online gambling is not regulated in the same way as other forms of gambling. Online evidence does not support the claim that players have been prosecuted.
47 United Arab Emirates Some areas allow land-based poker or sports betting, but online gambling is illegal. Penalties for violating the law can include a heavy fine or multiple years imprisonment.
48 Uzbekistan The former Soviet country has a national lottery. All other gambling is illegal. The chances of Internet gamers being prosecuted are slim.
49 Vietnam Although the government has banned gambling, there is still a lot of underground gambling. However, the state-sponsored lottery remains legal. If a citizen is caught using illegal offshore sites, the most common penalty for this offense is a fine.
50 Yemen Gambling has been made illegal by Sharia law. Although there is no evidence that anyone has been charged with online gambling, sites are regularly blocked.
SG Casinos
B9Casino ʳᵉᵍⁱˢᵗᵉʳ ᶠʳᵉᵉ ᶜʳᵉᵈⁱᵗ

Free SGD9 for first deposit of SGD30 or more. Welcome bonus up to SGD1,000

OB9 ʳᵉᵍⁱˢᵗᵉʳ ᶠᵒʳ ᶠʳᵉᵉ ᶜʳᵉᵈⁱᵗ

30SGD Free credit no deposit bonus for new members.

Shazam ʳᵉᵍⁱˢᵗᵉʳ ᶠʳᵉᵉ ᶜʳᵉᵈⁱᵗ

Shazam Casino SGD35 Free Chip. Bonus Code: WIZSHOES35. Confirm with support.

LᴜᴄᴋʏTɪɢᴇʀ ᵍᵉᵗ ᶠʳᵉᵉˢᵖⁱⁿˢ

40 FREE SPINS on the slot game Wild Wild Safari 🇸🇬

12Play ʳᵉᵍⁱˢᵗᵉʳ ᶠᵒʳ ᶠʳᵉᵉ ᶜʳᵉᵈⁱᵗ

Welcome FREE Credit SGD 12 awarded after signup! 100% Sign Up Bonus

©2022-2024 Massive Holdings Ltda, Maintained by Massive Dynamic Surface Web Division. This website focuses on reviewing and comparing other sites with casino-related content. It does not permit real money play and does not accept any payments. It is not an online casino and does not engage in any form of real money gaming, betting, lottery, or any other gambling activities.