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Hong Kong may legalize college basketball betting to curb illegal wagers

A bold move to regulate NCAA basketball betting could reshape Hong Kong’s gambling laws. Will stricter controls curb illegal wagers—or fuel new risks?

,   and  Administrator
2 min read
In this picture there is a view of the basketball court. In the front there are some players,...
In this picture there is a view of the basketball court. In the front there are some players, playing the basketball game. Behind there is a wooden paneling wall with many posters and advertising banners.

Hong Kong may legalize college basketball betting to curb illegal wagers

Hong Kong is contemplating a significant shift in its gambling regulations by potentially legalizing college basketball betting. The government has initiated a public survey to gauge opinions on the proposal, signaling a departure from its traditionally stringent stance on betting. Officials hope this move will help combat illegal college basketball betting while offering a regulated alternative for residents.

The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) has launched a month-long consultation, running from April 2 to May 2, 2025. This survey invites public feedback on whether college basketball betting should be legalized under a controlled licensing system. The proposed framework mirrors the existing soccer betting model, with the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) likely to apply for the license.

Illegal college basketball betting in Hong Kong has surged in recent years, with estimates placing its value between HK$70 billion ($9 billion) and HK$90 billion ($11.6 billion) in 2024 alone. Authorities believe a regulated market could reduce illicit activity while ensuring safer betting conditions. The suggested license would enforce strict rules, including age limits, a ban on credit betting, and restrictions on wagering on local games. The government also acknowledges the difficulties in policing online gambling, particularly with the rise of cryptocurrencies and VPNs. These challenges have made existing laws harder to enforce, prompting a rethink of current regulations. Alongside public input, the consultation will consider recommendations from the HKJC and the Betting and Lotteries Commission. Meanwhile, the HKJC’s soccer betting license will be renewed for another five years starting in July 2025, maintaining the same terms and conditions. The government stresses that any new college basketball betting license would prioritize responsible gambling measures to minimize social risks.

The public survey will determine whether Hong Kong proceeds with legalizing college basketball betting. If approved, the new system would introduce a licensed, regulated market while keeping strict controls in place. The outcome could reshape the city’s approach to gambling enforcement in the coming years.

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