Japan one step closer to IR casino legislation

Experts’ Committee shaping Japan’s Integrated Resorts (IR) Implementation Bill approved several proposals on Tuesday, as the country edges closer to a fully regulated casino industry.

According to news outlet Asia Gaming Brief, on Tuesday the Experts’ Committee held a meeting at Prime Minister Shinzō Abe’s official residence in regards to gambling legislation.

One of the major decisions was the creation of a ‘Casino Management Board’, which would be established as an external bureau of the Cabinet Office.

Another proposal approved by the committee is that “there would be only a single, tightly secured casino,” with a total floor space not exceeding 3% of each IR’s total area. The casino would consist of games such as slot machines, card games, and roulette, but wagering on sports events and online gaming would be prohibited.

In addition, measures aimed at countering problem gambling are also included in the plans. Notably, this includes banning the use of ATMs and credit cards within casino vicinities. Japanese nationals will be required to purchase their casino chips with cash.

The next meeting of the Experts’ Committee will reportedly deal mainly with policies to prevent money laundering at Japanese IRs.