Sports betting and gambling activities are strictly prohibited in Tonga under current national legislation. The Kingdom of Tonga maintains comprehensive restrictions on all forms of gambling, including casinos, sports betting, and related activities, as part of its legal framework that reflects the nation's conservative approach to gambling regulation (1). This prohibition is enforced through various government departments and has been consistently upheld by successive administrations, with authorities making clear statements about the illegal nature of gambling operations within the country's jurisdiction.
The Tongan government has demonstrated its commitment to maintaining gambling prohibitions through active enforcement and public statements regarding potential gaming operations (2). Recent attempts by international companies to establish casino operations in Tonga have been firmly rejected by government authorities, who have emphasized that existing laws make such ventures impossible. The legislative framework in Tonga requires that any new laws, including potential gambling legislation, must go through proper parliamentary processes, including multiple readings and royal assent before becoming valid law.
"Therefore any intention from Red Warrior Entertainment or any Casino Company to apply for a gaming license would be futile as gambling is prohibited by law."
The current legal environment in Tonga provides no pathway for legal sports betting operations, whether land-based or online (1). Unlike some Pacific Island nations that have developed offshore gambling licensing regimes, Tonga has not pursued this approach and maintains its blanket prohibition on gambling activities. Citizens and residents seeking to engage in sports betting must look to offshore platforms, though such activities technically remain outside the legal framework and could potentially face regulatory challenges. The government's position suggests that any changes to gambling laws would require significant legislative reform and public consultation through the established parliamentary process.
Source:
https://focusgn.com/tonga-shuts-casino-plans
https://parliament.gov.to/en/parliament-business/legislations-bills
Last updated: 15-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
