Hong Kong greenlighting basketball betting not before 2026: reports
Hong Kong’s legalisation of basketball betting may not be as soon as anticipated, with local media reports stating a possible launch slated for September 2026.
In a recent budget speech, Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary Paul Chan addressed the issue of exploring the possibility of legalising basketball in Hong Kong. Chan mentioned that discussions would be initiated with the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC), which has been tasked with exploring the feasibility and logistics of setting up a legal basketball betting framework. The club said it would prepare a comprehensive proposal to present to the government.
While the announcement has been made, basketball betting is not expected to be launched until 2026. This is owing to several factors, the most significant of which is the need for a comprehensive legal framework and the development of a robust betting system. Experts predict that the system will not be ready for launch until September 2026, coinciding with the start of the 2026/2027 NBA season.
Likely online-only
A key detail on the introduction of basketball betting in Hong Kong is that it will likely be restricted to online platforms. Retail betting stores, which are common for other sports like horse racing and football, will not accept bets on basketball, it will only be allowed on options like HKJC’s website and mobile app. In addition, betting on local Hong Kong basketball will also be prohibited.
A major driving force behind the push for legalised basketball betting is the substantial illegal trade for the sport in Hong Kong. Estimates suggest that in 2024 alone, illegal basketball betting in the country amounted to between HK$70 billion and HK$90 billion (US$9.0 billion to US$11.6 billion). By legalising it, the government aims to divert this massive illegal market into a regulated system, which is expected to generate up to HK$1.5 billion annually in tax revenue, according to HKJC.
Greenlighting postponed?
Earlier, basketball betting was supposed to start before the upcoming NBA season in October 2025. This was due to the city’s budget, presented on 26 February, introducing a new proposal to legalise basketball betting. A similar initiative failed during the 2024 legislative session, but mounting financial pressures may improve its chances this year. The development came as a Hong Kong legislator renewed calls for the government to allow the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) to offer basketball betting, arguing that it could generate substantial tax revenue while curbing illegal gambling.
