Legal Betting in Mongolia

The Legality of Betting in Mongolia: A Comprehensive Review

Mongolia is a country with a vibrant history and a burgeoning economy, and in recent years sports betting has become well established among the population. Even in the past, gambling was mostly forbidden – indicating the conservative nature of the country toward gaming. But new and prospective laws have changed the betting landscape, especially football betting. This article explores the juridical aspects of betting in Mongolia, popular gambling sites and local betting shops, laws that regulate it, attractive types of sports, the perception of betting in Mongolia, and how the betting industry affects the Mongolian economy.

Statute and Laws of the Betting Industry in Mongolia

Gambling, including sports betting, had been illegal in Mongolia under a 1997 law that effectively banned most forms of gambling until recent changes. The ban was applicable to all forms of offline and online betting, citing reasons of social harm and links between gambling and criminal activities. In January 2025, the government of Mongolia passed the Sports Betting Regulation Act to legalize sports betting under tight control while extending the prohibition of other games of chance, such as gambling in casinos or lotteries.

The law introduces a licensure scheme for sports betting operators, setting a high bar in terms of requirements for financial transparency, responsible gambling, and anti-money laundering obligations. Only licensed operators can legally offer sports betting; anything else can be met with heavy fines and potential closure. The authorities have also stepped up their efforts against illegal online gambling outlets, clamping down on foreign websites that previously had free rein.

This change in regulation is designed to reduce problem gambling and create a proven source of income for governments that seek to benefit from licensed betting. Operators are required to encourage responsible gambling through features such as self-exclusion programs and betting limits.

Popular Betting Platforms

Due to increasingly relaxed regulations, several established providers operate in the Mongolian betting market. International gambling companies are in the process of setting up, provided they receive a Mongolian license. Platforms such as Betway and Pinnacle, which follow local laws, attract heavy traffic due to their easy user interfaces, competitive odds, and mobile compatibility. These sites provide various types of sports wagers, in-play betting features, and secure payment options that accept Mongolian tugrik (MNT).

Unlicensed operators, such as 1xBet and Melbet, previously used by many Mongolian bettors, have been prohibited under the new rules. The government’s increased pressure on these sites demonstrates its dedication to maintaining the licensing system and protecting consumers from unlicensed providers. Licensed platforms accept MNT and support the Mongolian language, increasing ease of use.

Local Betting Offices

Besides online sites, physical betting shops are emerging in cities such as Ulaanbaatar and Erdenet. These establishments, run by licensed companies, cater to those who prefer to place bets in person. Betting shops typically include professional setups with computer-generated information on walls or TV screens showing live sports events. They are designed for bettors who lack reliable internet access or prefer the social atmosphere of public settings.

These facilities are closely regulated and frequently inspected to ensure they maintain proper licenses. They also serve as points of contact for responsible gambling, providing information and support for those with gambling problems. Local betting offices are expected to grow as the sports betting market develops.

Favorite Sports to Bet On

Sports betting in Mongolia is closely tied to the country’s sports culture. Wrestling, archery, and horse racing, known as the "three manly sports," are integral to Mongolian tradition and are featured during the annual Naadam festival. Horse racing is the most popular betting market, with punters wagering on horses to win or place in arduous long-distance races. These sports are deeply rooted in culture, making them a favorite for betting.

Football (soccer) is also rising in popularity, thanks to global influences and coverage of international matches on television and streams. Favorite leagues include the English Premier League and UEFA Champions League, as well as international competitions. Basketball, particularly the NBA, is also a rising favorite, especially among urban and younger bettors. These sports attract a large number of wagers due to their popularity and accessible statistics.

Additional Information

• The wagering age is 19 and up.
• Licensed operators are required to donate a percentage of their profits to programs benefiting society.
• Non-sporting events, such as political races, cannot be wagered on.
• A publicly available register of gambling license holders exists.
• Online betting websites must have secure encryption to protect user details.

Cultural Attitude About Betting

The Mongolian reaction to sports betting legalization has been mixed. Historically, gambling has been derided, often linked to social ills and financial catastrophe. These concerns were evident in the 1997 ban, which prioritized social order over economic benefits. However, with the recent legalization, attitudes are shifting, particularly among younger people who view betting as entertainment and a way to engage with global sports culture.

Conservative segments of society remain wary, calling for tight regulation to prevent gambling addiction. Government and licensed entities have initiated awareness programs to educate citizens on responsible betting. Cultural attitudes are expected to evolve as the industry grows, influenced by financial interests and ongoing efforts to address social concerns.

The Economic Implication of the Betting Industry

The legalization of sports betting is expected to have significant financial consequences for Mongolia. License fees and taxes from operators can fund public services like schools and roads. The industry also provides employment, from customer service staff at betting shops to tech professionals at online platforms. Additionally, sports betting could benefit ancillary industries such as travel and hospitality during events like Naadam.

However, economic benefits must be balanced against potential costs, including problem gambling and associated social costs. The government’s focus on regulation and responsible gambling aims to maximize benefits while minimizing harm.

Betting Industry Statistics

Metric	Value
Number of Licensed Operators	10
Annual Tax Revenue from Betting	2 billion MNT
Active Bettors (Estimated)	40,000
Most Popular Betting Sport	Horse Racing
Average Monthly Betting Spend per User	20,000 MNT

Conclusion

The Sports Betting Regulation Act of 2025 marks a significant departure from Mongolia’s long-standing history of gambling prohibition, reflecting a balanced approach between economic opportunities and tight regulation. The licensing regime, prohibition of unlicensed operators, and focus on responsible gambling prioritize player protection. Leading platforms like Betway and Pinnacle, alongside local betting shops, are adapting to comply with regulations, with horse racing, football, and basketball as top betting choices. Culturally, gambling is becoming more acceptable, though tempered by concerns about social effects. Economically, the sector is poised to stimulate growth and generate revenue, provided regulations manage emerging risks. Mongolia’s evolving betting market exemplifies the integration of tradition, innovation, and responsibility in a rapidly changing world.