Online bingo is illegal in Hong Kong under the Gambling Ordinance (Cap. 148) and the Betting Duty Ordinance (Cap. 108) (1). All gambling activities are prohibited except those expressly authorized by the government, which include only horse racing, football betting, and the Mark Six Lottery operated by The Hong Kong Jockey Club, plus certain licensed activities like mahjong parlours. Online casinos and online gaming platforms are not licensed or exempted, making betting with these websites a criminal offense (1).
The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau is responsible for formulating gambling policy in Hong Kong with a strict approach to restrict gambling opportunities to a limited number of authorized and regulated outlets (2). Online bingo and other unauthorized online gambling platforms are explicitly prohibited, and no licensing framework exists for private operators to offer digital gaming services. Individuals caught participating in illegal online gambling or operating illegal online gambling platforms face penalties including substantial fines and imprisonment. The legal framework also targets financial institutions facilitating unauthorized gambling transactions (1).
"Under the Gambling Ordinance, all gambling activities are illegal except those expressly authorised by the Government. As both online casinos and online e-sports gambling platforms are not licensed nor exempted in Hong Kong, betting with these websites would breach the law."
Hong Kong maintains aggressive enforcement against offshore gambling operators and participants to prevent unauthorized online betting activities (2). Authorities actively monitor internet transactions and collaborate with financial institutions to block payments related to unlicensed gambling. Websites offering unauthorized online betting face blocking measures, and both operators and players face significant legal consequences including criminal records. The government's conservative approach to iGaming reflects concerns about problem gambling, money laundering, and criminal involvement. Hong Kong has established specialized counselling and treatment centers funded through The Ping Wo Fund to address gambling-related problems, demonstrating the jurisdiction's commitment to public welfare over liberalizing online gambling.
Source:
https://www.hkjc.com/responsible-gambling/en/anti-illegal/myth
https://www.hyab.gov.hk/en/policy_responsibilities/District_Community_and_Public_Relations/gambling.htm
Last updated: 31-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
