China Lottery Sales Rise Sharply in September with Sports Betting Leading Gains

China lottery sales rose 27.3% to $10.4 billion in September 2026. Sports betting sales climbed 73.1% during the period. The Ministry of Finance released the figures and linked ongoing demand to the lasting effects of the FIFA World Cup.

Sports betting generated $5.87 billion in the month. That total represented 58.4% of all lottery sales. Instant lottery sales fell 14.9% to $1.49 billion. Video lottery sales stood at $7.9 million.

Results improved across 31 provinces. Shandong posted $238.4 million, Henan recorded $213.1 million, and Jiangsu reached $156.5 million. These provincial totals formed part of the nationwide advance.

Year-to-Date Results

Sales for the first nine months of 2026 increased 14.6% to $81.33 billion. The lottery continues to show steady growth compared with the prior year. This performance stands in contrast to the country’s strict limits on other forms of gambling.

Official Push Into Cinemas

Authorities urged China’s 90,000 cinemas to sell lottery tickets and host sports events. The directive seeks to offset falling box office receipts through diversified activity. According to reporting by GamblingNews, the lottery remains the permitted exception that sustains public engagement where other verticals face prohibition.

Reporting: GamblingNews

Generated by SCCG’s automated editorial system from published source reporting. SCCG Management holds editorial responsibility.