Laws and regulation

The basic norm of Palau is the prohibition of casinos and most gambling in the Criminal Code (ch. 50); international assessments also record that there are no casinos in the country.

Exceptions apply to limited social/charity gaming.

In 2024-2025

The Ministry of Finance has launched online concessions: operators can apply for a virtual pachinko and Internet digital lottery according to approved regulations and forms (with separate requirements for applications and operating rules).

Historically, authorities have affirmed the illegality of casinos; "controlled gambling" initiatives are being discussed, but the general ban remains, and the online segment is developing in the form of narrow concessions under the supervision of the Ministry of Finance and AML/CFT rules.