New gambling restrictions issued

China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism has issued a notice banning gambling content from gaming parlors, machines, and devices.

devices that allow small wagers, betting odds, or the ability to maximize earnings will be forbidden

The notice, dated November 6, states that the new gambling restrictions will come into play on January 1, 2020. This means that devices that allow small wagers, betting odds, or the ability to maximize earnings will be forbidden in the country from next year.

The new rules will also apply to devices such as slot machines that automatically decide the results for the customer, as well as any token-based games that convert gaming credit to cash. The restrictions will also see the withdrawal of ‘steel balls’, a nod to the popular Japanese slot machine game Pachinko.

Reflecting the national spirit

In its notice, titled Measures for the Management of Gaming Equipment, the ministry calls on gambling and gaming machine makers to respect the traditional values of Chinese culture. This includes adhering to core socialist values and developing games that offer independent intellectual property.

Gambling in all its forms is currently illegal on the Chinese mainland, with the exception of two state-run lotteries.

games that allow physical prizes will be required to have their winning odds displayed

The document also outlines the various conditions attached to some methods of entertainment. Plush-toy crane and claw machines or any games that allow physical prizes will be required to have their winning odds displayed in the vicinity.

Ban goes further for youth

The ministry’s notice also highlights the prohibition of under-18s from having anything to do with equipment that uses odds or games of chance.

Minors will only be allowed to enter premises which hold this type of equipment on state holidays. The restriction aligns with the Chinese authorities’ firm belief that casinos and similar gambling establishments are “improper” for people under the age of 18 to use independently or for a long time.

Long-term penalties

According to the Chinese government, the new measures have been introduced to protect mental health and clear internet space.

The ministry’s notice states that if anyone is found in violation of the law after it kicks off on January 1, they risk disciplinary action. Penalties include being put on the “blacklist of cultural markets”.