Japan reviews the future of integrated resorts

Osaka leading the charge to develop a casino complex on its Yumeshima Island, the rest of Japan looks to begin discussing the future of the regions casino developments.

Following recent defeats by anti-casino political candidates, the Japanese government will begin open discussion about how the casinos could work in practice as reported in the Japan Times. These talks will take place between 17 and 29 August led by a government committee. The committee will look to hold the talks in nine different cities.

Japans progress towards casino development has been slow and arduous. A report released earlier this week looked to impose various strict rules on any potential future casino in the country. Floor space is to be limited. Also strict rules will be placed on the participation of Japanese nationals due to national fears over the dangers of gambling and money laundering.

There is no shortage of interest from Japanese cities and foreign casino operators who would both stand to gain financially from potential integrated casino resorts. Tokyo, Osaka and Hokkaido have all held unofficial debates in recent weeks as they all look to open an integrated resort in the near future.

It also positive news for American resort operators Las Vegas Sands Corp. and MGM Resorts International who have both expressed an interest in developing resorts in Japan.