Polymarket is preparing to enter the Japanese market as it looks to expand its prediction market business globally. The platform, which lets users bet on outcomes of events like elections and economic data, is now working on regulatory approval in Japan with a long-term target set for 2030.
The move comes as the company faces stricter rules in the United States and growing competition in the prediction market space. Trading volumes have also eased slightly in recent months, pushing the company to look for new regions to grow.
【速報】Polymarketが日本参入目指す、2030年までの承認に向けロビー活動開始＝報道
予測市場のポリマーケットが日本に代表者を任命し、予測市場の合法化に向けたロビー活動の準備を進めていることが判明。関係者の話によると、同社は日本政府からの承認取得を2030年までに実現する目標を掲げている。 pic.twitter.com/TTZI3OrfND
— SOU⚡️投資ニュース / 仮想通貨・米国株・AI (@SOU_BTC) May 22, 2026
Polymarket is aiming to launch its prediction market services in Japan by working with local representatives and starting early policy engagement. The platform wants approval to legally offer event-based trading in the country.
It has appointed a local lead for its Japan business and is starting discussions with regulators. However, the timeline is long, with approval not expected until 2030.
Why is Japan a key target for prediction markets?
Japan is seen as an important market because of its large and regulated financial system. The country currently restricts most forms of online betting, but it allows limited exceptions like pachinko.
If prediction markets are approved, it could open a new category of regulated crypto-based financial products in the region. This would also help Polymarket grow its user base outside the US.
Can prediction markets become mainstream in Japan?
Polymarket’s success in Japan depends on how regulators classify prediction markets. If treated as financial products, they could become part of the mainstream investment system.
But if seen as gambling, access could remain restricted. The final outcome will likely shape how prediction markets develop in Asia over the next decade.
Notably, Polymarket reportedly in discussions with investors to secure $400 million in fresh funding, showing continued momentum in the rapidly expanding event-based trading sector. According to a report from The Information, the round would value the company at approximately $15 billion, citing sources familiar with the matter.
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