Japan passes controversial casino bill
Japan finally enacted its contentious gaming bill, allowing for a limited number of integrated resort casinos.
The Bill was passed despite delaying tactics by opposition lawmakers.
The government has pledged to strictly monitor the casinos and sees a big boost to tourism with the opening of integrated resorts.
Japanese IRs are not only about casinos," government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said.
"It is an integrated resort facility that will help increase tourism across Japan."
The government already outlined some rules including limiting Japanese citizens to a maximum of three visits a week and an admission fee of 6,000 yen per visit.
Still, Japan is considered the ‘Holy Grail’ for gaming companies due to its wealthy population and large Chinese source market.
Major players in the industry like Hard Rock, Las Vegas Sands and MGM have been vying for position with some already setting up tentative joint ventures with local firms.
"This important Japanese tradition of creating a unique guest experience makes it clear to us that Japan will develop extraordinary integrated resorts that are not found in any other country," said Wynn Resorts CEO Matt Maddox.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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