The government of Japan has signalled its intentions to expand the development of integrated resorts in the country.
The Japanese Tourism Agency released a draft Cabinet order laying out plans for a new application window for local governments interested in hosting integrated resorts between 6 May 2027 and 5 November 2027.
Up to three development plans may be certified by the government under the 2018 integrated resorts law.
So far, only one plan has received approval, and work has begun on a resort led by a joint venture between MGM Resorts International and Japan’s Orix Corporation in Osaka.
The project is slated to cost ¥1.27 trillion (£6.4bn) and is expected to open in 2030.
During the first round of applications, held in 2023, the cities of Nagasaki and Wakayama were rejected, while Yokohama withdrew its application, citing social concerns.
Looking ahead, it is likely that both these locations will once again submit applications, while Hokkaido has also displayed interest in exploring the economic potential of land-based gaming.
Each region must prepare an area development plan in collaboration with a private sector operator. Previously, industry giants including Caesars Entertainment, Wynn Resorts and Hard Rock International were linked to applications.
Japan’s iron lady to lead casino momentum?
Japan’s casino ambitions were boosted in October when Sanae Takaichi was elected as the country’s first female Prime Minister.
Just days into her premiership, she urged Japan’s Tourism Minister to resume efforts to promote integrated resorts as part of Japan’s broader economic growth strategy, which has led to this latest round of action from the tourism agency.
Takaichi was one of the earliest proponents of legalising casinos in Japan, and her 2013 bill calling for change helped lay the groundwork for the broader integrated resort legislation that is in place today.
On the other hand, the outlook does not look as rosy for those hoping for a change of heart from Japan regarding the government’s attitude toward online gaming.
The vertical remains illegal in the country, and this appears unlikely to change as Takaichi has taken a largely negative stance on the sector, calling for a tightening of regulations due to concerns surrounding the social harms caused by iGaming.
Despite being illegal, the Japanese government estimates that ¥1.24tn (£6.2bn) is wagered each year via online gaming platforms, and authorities have moved to curtail the impact of the illicit market by banning overseas online gambling advertisements.
