Hokkaido Economic Federation supports casino plans
The group said an integrated resort would boost tourism.
Japan.- The Hokkaido Economic Federation has expressed support for an integrated resort (IR) with casino in the region. At a press conference after a ceremony to mark the body’s 50th anniversary, it said thedevelopment would bring economic benefits
Yutaka Fujii, chairperson of the Hokkaido Economic Federation, and chairperson of Hokkaido Electric Power Co, was cited by media as saying: “Having an IR is an effective way to improve the value of Hokkaido tourism and a great opportunity for the Hokkaido business community. The Hokkaido Economic Federation is going to have study meetings with other economic groups in Hokkaido.”
Suguru Kanazawa, the mayor of Tomakomai in Hokkaido prefecture, announced in February plans to revive the city’s bid to host an IR with a casino. Kanazawa said the city was restructuring its IR promotion initiatives and working with the central government and Hokkaido Prefecture to attract private investment to the area around New Chitose Airport.
In November 2019, Hokkaido chose not to participate in Japan’s initial IR application phase, mainly due to environmental concerns. However, authorities in Tomakomai remained interested in the possibility of hosting a resort.
The only IR project approved in Japan for now is MGM Osaka on Yumeshima island. The development is a joint venture between the Orix Group, MGM Resorts International and several smaller-scale Japanese investors. It’s been reported the the central government may open new applications for two more IR licences, potentially reviving its initial plan to approve three developments. It’s reported that two more permits could be awarded by the end of 2027.
