Hong Kong Legalises Basketball Betting in 2026 – Key Updates You Should Know

Hong Kong is stepping into a new era of regulated gambling as basketball betting becomes legal in 2026, providing residents with a safe alternative to illegal wagering. This move is expected to reduce underground betting while generating revenue under government supervision.

Legal Framework for Basketball Betting in 2026
In September 2025, Hong Kong’s Legislative Council approved the Betting Duty (Amendment) Bill 2025, officially paving the way for basketball betting starting in 2026. The law empowers the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs to issue licences to operators, with rules similar to existing football betting regulations.

Key highlights of the new framework:

⦁ Licensed operators can legally offer basketball betting starting in 2026.
 
⦁ A 50 % duty applies to net profits from basketball betting, as with football betting.
 
⦁ The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) is expected to be the primary operator for basketball wagers.

Why Hong Kong Legalised Basketball Betting
The move addresses two major objectives:

1. Reducing Illegal Betting:
Unregulated basketball bets were common in Hong Kong. Legalisation channels demand to licensed platforms, minimising risks like fraud and illegal activity.

2. Protecting the Public:
Regulatory measures such as age restrictions and responsible gambling campaigns are designed to reduce social harm. Public consultations showed strong support for a regulated system.

Current Status in Early 2026

⦁ The law is officially in effect, making basketball betting legal in 2026.
 
⦁ Full implementation, including licensing and operational setup, is ongoing. Launch is expected later in 2026, potentially in line with the NBA season.
 
How Basketball Betting Will Be Regulated
The government has established safeguards to ensure responsible gambling:

⦁ Only adults are permitted to place bets.
 
⦁ Limits on bet types and eligible competitions.
 
⦁ Local Hong Kong teams are excluded from bets.
 
⦁ Public education campaigns on gambling harm will be enforced.
 
What This Means for Hong Kong
Basketball betting will join horse racing and football as one of Hong Kong’s three authorised sports betting options. The HKJC, which already operates football, horse racing, and the Mark Six lottery, will likely oversee basketball betting as well, ensuring a controlled and regulated environment.

💬 Final Thoughts
2026 marks a landmark year for Hong Kong as basketball betting becomes officially legal, joining horse racing and football as authorised sports wagering options. This move provides a safe, regulated alternative to illegal gambling, protects the public with strict safeguards, and ensures responsible betting practices. Fans can look forward to enjoying basketball wagers under government oversight, while the HKJC prepares to launch operations later this year. With this step, Hong Kong balances public demand for gambling with social responsibility, setting the stage for a safer and more transparent betting environment.