Table of Contents
Regulating Basketball Betting in Hong Kong: A Step Towards Safety and Revenue
Hong Kong is preparing to introduce legal basketball betting by early 2026. The goal is to bring control to a huge underground market, where people are estimated to place between €8 and €10.5 billion in illegal basketball wagers every year. By regulating the activity, officials hope to create a safer and more responsible environment for fans who already enjoy betting on basketball.
Public Support and Tax Benefits
The plan for basketball betting follows a public consultation, where an overwhelming 94% of respondents supported legalization. The government now intends to treat basketball wagers in the same way as football betting. Licensed operators will face a 50% profit tax, which could generate between €180 and €240 million in annual revenue.
This money is expected to ease Hong Kong’s budget deficit of more than €10.5 billion. More importantly, the move aims to steer players away from unsafe, unregulated platforms and into a trusted, monitored system.
A Safe, Controlled Approach
Just like football betting, the Hong Kong Jockey Club is expected to become the only licensed operator for basketball betting. To protect integrity and minimize risks, betting on local matches or games involving Hong Kong teams will not be allowed.
Strict safeguards will also be in place. Operators must ensure all users are at least 18 years old, cannot offer credit betting, and must clearly promote support services for responsible gambling.
Why Basketball Betting Matters
Officials stress that this policy is not about promoting gambling but about managing an activity that already exists at scale. With clear rules, consumer protections, and tax benefits, basketball betting in Hong Kong could:
-
Reduce illegal market activity
-
Provide steady government funding
-
Promote safer gambling practices
By early 2026, Hong Kong hopes to prove that regulated basketball betting can be both secure for players and beneficial for society.
ALSO READ: MIXI Wins Bid As PointsBet Rejects Betr Offer
