Japan may open bidding for two new IR licences
Two additional licences could be approved by the end of 2027.
Japan.- The government of Japan may open new applications for integrated resort (IR) licences, potentially reviving its initial plan to approve three developmentsy. It’s reported that two more permits could be awarded by the end of 2027.
Hokkaido Shimbun reports that the central government has contacted some of the prefectures that previously expressed interest in hosting an IR, such as Hokkaido and Yokohama. Tokyo is also seen as a potential location due to its strong transport infrastructure and visitor numbers, although no formal bid has been submitted.
In March, Wakayama governor Shuhei Kishimoto said that the prefecture would consider bidding to host an IR with a casino if Japan opens a new round of applications. Wakayama was initially one of the bidders for Japan’s first round of casino licences, but it withdrew its proposal after the prefectural assembly voted against the area development plan in 2022.
The only IR project approved in Japan after the initial window for applications is MGM Osaka on Yumeshima island. it’s a joint venture between the Orix Group, MGM Resorts International and several smaller-scale Japanese investors.
Earlier this week, Ed Bowers, president of global development at MGM Resorts, said construction of MGM Osaka is on track for completion in the summer of 2030, with an anticipated opening around autumn of the same year.
Expected to cost JPY1.27tn (US$ 8.9bn), it will feature a hotel with around 2,500 rooms. It will also include about 400,000 square feet of conference facilities, 330,000 square feet of exhibition space and a theatre with around 3,500 seats. The casino will feature 470 table games and 6,400 slot machines.
