The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has launched a consultation on the proposed regulation of basketball betting as part of its efforts to combat illegal gambling and strengthen the supervision of betting activities.
Under the plan, the "Betting Duty Ordinance" will be amended to allow the Secretary for Home Affairs and Youth Affairs to issue a basketball betting license to the Hong Kong Jockey Club. The proposed system will be closely related to the existing football betting rules.
The authorities estimate that the turnover of illegal basketball betting will reach HK$70 billion to HK$90 billion in 2024. According to government sources, unregulated platforms are becoming increasingly difficult to monitor, especially with the rise of digital payments and cryptocurrencies.
Licensing conditions include a fixed term, restrictions on the types of matches available for betting, and a prohibition on accepting bets involving Hong Kong teams or local matches. Operators are not allowed to accept credit betting or bets from minors.
Additional safeguards require operators to post warnings about the dangers of excessive gambling and provide information on support services for those affected by gambling addiction.
Officials emphasize that the government's policy does not promote gambling, but insists that a controlled and limited regulatory framework is a more effective way to meet public demand and curb illegal activities.
The consultation document is now available online, and the public can submit comments by mail, fax, or email before early May.
