Taiwans Justice Department has put forward a change to the law, aiming to make online gambling a criminal act. They argue that this activity is a primary source of social and family issues within the nation.
The department stated that the proposed amendment to Articles 266 and 270 of the Taiwan Criminal Code would “enhance legal responsibility for gambling utilizing telecommunications devices, electronic communications, the internet, or similar methods.”
This alteration would introduce new penalties, including a fine of NT$1,000 (roughly £25.9/$29.3/€32.3) for any individual caught participating in online gambling, along with the seizure of any equipment used for gambling.
Since 1994, Taiwanese law has prohibited gambling in “public spaces or areas accessible to the public,” as well as the operation of gambling establishments. However, there are currently no regulations in the country concerning online gambling, which the Ministry of Justice has labeled a “gap.”
This document highlights that widespread technology and internet access make gambling readily available to anyone with the necessary tools. This accessibility will negatively affect Taiwanese society and contribute to a rising issue of gambling dependency.
The document cautions: “In the long term, gamblers may solely seek financial gain from gambling, leading to a lack of societal contribution and a decline in social ethics.”
The proposed amendment must be presented to the nation’s legislative body, requiring their approval for implementation.
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