JAPAN Osaka, the Kishida government approves the first casino

An “integrated resort” on the artificial island of Yumeshima. It will open in 2029 and aims to attract 20 million “tourists” a year. Concern in Japanese public opinion about the possible increase in gambling addiction and the infiltration of crime.

Osaka ( / Agencies) – Japan has also decided to enter the Asian market of large casinos. The Kishida government has approved a plan to open what will be the country’s first casino in Osaka. According to the plan submitted by the Osaka prefectural and city governments, the integrated complex, consisting of a large hotel, conference rooms and playgrounds, is expected to open on the man-made island of Yumeshima in the bay. Osaka, between autumn and winter of 2029.

“We hope that the casino will become a tourist base that will promote Japan’s attractiveness to the world,” Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said.

Casinos were illegal in Japan like other private gambling, but a 2018 law on integrated resorts made an exception for casino games like poker or baccarat at officially approved facilities as part of an effort to attract tourists. . Japan is considered a favored market for casino operators thanks to its affluent population of 126 million people and its proximity to wealthy Asian players, although opinion polls revealed that many citizens fear gambling addiction will spread and increase crime.

In response to these objections, the Ministry of Territory, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism established a series of seven conditions, including carrying out periodic investigations on gambling addiction to determine whether the preventive measures applied are adequate.

According to the calculations of the promoters, the Osaka complex could attract some 20 million visitors a year and contribute to the region annual economic benefits of 1,140 trillion yen (more than 8,000 million euros). Nagasaki prefecture has already submitted a similar plan for another integrated complex, which is being evaluated by the government.