The Japanese government is ready to give its full approval to a plan by Osaka Prefecture and the city of Osaka to launch Japan’s first casino resort in 2029.
According to local media reports, government sources have said that the approval of the integrated resort (IR) will follow the latest easing of travel restrictions.
Government Set to Approve Japan's First Casino Resort Government Set to Approve Japan's First Casino ResortIt is anticipated that the resort, which is a joint venture between the US-based MGM Resorts International and Japan’s Orix, will draw approximately 20 million visitors each year and generate yearly economic benefits of ¥1.14 trillion (€7.7 billion) for the western Japan region centered on the prefecture.
According to sources, while Nagasaki Prefecture has submitted a proposal to host an IR, the task force is expected to delay any decision as it needs additional time to scrutinize the specifics of its plan.
In 2018, Japan enacted a law that permitted the establishment of up to three Integrated Resorts (IRs). However, the proposal to boost the economy with the help of casinos was met with resistance from the public, primarily because of fears regarding the negatives impacts of gambling.
