ABSTRACT
Under the existing Gambling Ordinance, the playing of dice, dominoes, mahjong, tin kau tiles, and cards is lawful, provided the game is played socially on private premises and the game is not promoted or conducted by way of trade or business. Such games can also be played in licensed restaurants and registered societies or societies which are exempt from registration. Nevertheless, a fee must not be charged for admission to such premises and the games must not be played against a bank kept by one or more players exclusively of the others. Games like pai kau, fantan, blackjack, and Chinese dice with fish, shrimp, and crab are illegal under the Ordinance.
