MGM Resorts International CEO Jim Murren has predicted Osaka will be the first region to see an integrated casino resort approved in Japan.

Murren believes the city’s government will issue its request for proposal in the next few months.

From there, the government will decide which casino operator to partner with in 2020.

With Osaka set to host the 2025 World Expo, MGM Resorts CEO Murren says there is a real urgency within the Osaka government to have the casino resort developed as soon as possible.

The Osaka government recently stated developers will need to commit at least $8.5bn to be considered for partnership.

Murren said: “We’ve made a decision to focus all of our energy on Osaka.

“We believe Osaka is going to be the first integrated resort location. The government is very excited about it.”