Sports Betting in China

China’s sports betting is complex due to strict national policies, limited lawful options, and heavy government oversight. While the People’s Republic permits only a small number of regulated wagering systems, millions of Chinese bettors continue to participate through state-run lotteries, Macau gambling venues, and offshore backing sites. 

This updated guide explains how betting works in Chinese regions today, where bets can be placed, and how online platforms fit into the picture.

China Sports Betting: Legal Landscape

Gambling in China is heavily restricted. The mainland permits only two government-sanctioned products: the sports and welfare lotteries.

All other forms—including sportsbooks, foreign bookmakers, and internet bookies—are considered against the law. Unauthorized backing platforms and offshore online betting websites fall under illegal betting and are often blocked by Chinese authorities.

Despite this, sports betting remains extremely popular among Chinese bettors, leading to a constant push-and-pull between bettors seeking better options and the government restricting access to illegal sports betting platforms.

Where Can You Bet on Sports in China? 

Mainland China 

Playing for stakes in the mainland is limited to the official China Sports Lottery. This system allows stakes football, basketball, and more, but the odds are typically lower compared to foreign sportsbooks. Bets outside the China Welfare lottery or sports system and online platforms are against the law. 

There are no physical, land-based sportsbooks in the mainland. Any in-person backing shop is considered part of unlawful staking networks and is subject to enforcement. 

Macau

Macau is the only region where backing is allowed outside the Chinese lottery system. Macau’s entertainment hubs offer sportsbooks, slot machines, tables, and more. Visitors often choose Macau because of:

• World-class gaming venues
• The ability to put money on international matches

Macau Jockey Club

The Macau Jockey Club operates Macau’s only regulated horse racing venue. Bettors can place stakes on local and international races across multiple counters. 

A long-standing favorite among fans, the Macau Jockey Club offers a traditional racing atmosphere. While the racing scene has been quieter in recent years, it remains the primary backing venue in Macau, allowed by law, and a nostalgic stop for long-time punters. 

Macau Slot

Macau Slot is the government-authorized land-based backing operator, offering stakes on international leagues, basketball, tennis, motorsports, and more.

Macau Slot provides the most reliable way to put money on global matches in person. The platform covers the Premier League, La Liga, Champions League, NBA, Formula One, and major tournaments.

Sportsbooks Inside Macau Casinos

Several integrated resorts include dedicated backing lounges. These aren’t full-scale bookmakers like Macau Slot, but they provide screens, terminals, and limited sportsbook options. You can find them in:

• The Venetian Macau: Known for its massive floor area, The Venetian’s backing zone offers comfortable seating and large screens. 
• Wynn Macau: An upscale environment where players can stake money on major events while enjoying Wynn’s polished atmosphere. 
• MGM Macau: Modern screens and competitive match coverage make MGM a popular stop. 

Hong Kong

HK has its own backing framework, but it maintains one of the world’s strictest regulated systems. The Hong Kong Jockey Club is the only authorized bookmaker in the region.

Founded in 1884, the HKJC is one of the world’s most respected sports betting organizations. It offers transparency, clean operations, and robust customer protection. Horse racing at Sha Tin and Happy Valley is iconic, drawing both locals and international visitors. The HKJC is also the region’s largest taxpayer, reinforcing its role as the city’s central backing institution.

All stakes in HK must be placed through HKJC counters, racecourses, or official online channels. Any foreign bookmakers or unlicensed websites targeting HK players are illegal. 

Betting Websites: Online Options for Chinese Players 

Although the law bans online wagering in the mainland, bettors still frequently access international sportsbooks by using mirror URLs or VPNs. These sites include foreign bookmakers and international sportsbooks that offer higher odds, wider markets, and global football coverage.

Chinese players prefer it because: 

• Odds are better than the lottery  
• They can bet on global football leagues
• Thousands of matches and tournaments 
• Casino games are available 

However, using online platforms for backing remains illegal in the mainland, and the government regularly focuses on restricting access and blocking foreign websites. 

Gambling in China: Frequently Asked Questions