China is a country that has a large population and one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Gaming providers see the potential in the Chinese market and are finding any way possible to market online poker in the country. Poker is quickly gaining popularity among Chinese players, but it is also held back by laws restricting gambling.
There are no online poker sites that are based in China because gambling is illegal in the country. Many international online poker sites are hesitant to allow Chinese players for fear of action against them by the government. However, select international companies are anticipating the release of the ban on poker in China and have thus made their sites accessible to Chinese poker players.
There are certain things to consider when choosing a good online poker site in China. Choose a site that is well established and has no current lawsuits against them from the Chinese government. You don’t want to risk getting involved with a company that is going through legal difficulties.
Another important thing to consider is the financial transaction policy of the casino. Depositing and withdrawing money is often difficult for Chinese customers, so you will want to choose one that provides many different payment options. Also, make sure that the poker site accepts the Chinese Yuan.
The best online poker sites will offer Chinese players the opportunity to play a variety of poker games. Chinese players enjoy playing Western poker games including Texas Hold’ em, Omaha and Omaha Hi-Lo. The Asian variation of the game, simply called Chinese Poker, is quickly gaining popularity among players.
Depositing At Poker Sites For Chinese Players
Depositing and withdrawing money is often very difficult for Chinese poker players. Many banks and credit cards based in China will not allow deposits to online poker sites or they will charge a very large fee to do it. Many online payment services including Neteller do not provide accounts to Chinese customers. An option that some players have had success with is obtaining credit cards from companies based overseas.
Many poker rooms will offer bonuses to Chinese players. Most bonuses come in the form of points that can be used for wagering purposes. The best poker sites will allow Chinese poker players to redeem their bonuses for cash, but many will only allow them to be used to buy chips. Rakes will vary by poker site but is typically 5 to 10% of the pot.
Is It Legal To Play Online Poker In China?
Online gambling is illegal in all of China except in the region of Macau. Legislation is often vague against online poker and it is expected that the government may lift the ban in the future. It is rare for people who participate in online poker games to be prosecuted or fined.