Nagasaki launches request for IR proposals

The city is looking for a partner with a proven track record in international casino operations and a proposal that will benefit the whole Kyushu region.

Japan.- The city of Nagasaki has launched its request-for-proposal (RFP) process to seek a private partner for its bid for one the three integrated resorts (IR) licences to be issued in Japan in 2022.

Vice-Governor Ken Hirata has revealed that based on operators’ proposals, the city estimates an investment of between US$3.2bn and US$4.2bn to build the resort.

The city authorities have reserved a 31-hectare site at Huis Ten Bosch theme park in Sasebo city.

The result of the RFP process to choose a private partner for the IR bid are expected to be announced by the summer.

Hirata said that to make its decision the city will take into account operators’ track records in casino operations, especially in international markets, and the positive contribution they can make to the economy and local employment.

He added: “We have the support of the whole Kyushu region, so we would like to see proposals that have Kyushu in mind as well.

“The proposal should include various ways to expand tourism. Tourism in the Kyushu region and western Japan should be addressed, contributing to the local economy by purchasing local ingredients and products”.

Four operators are known to be interested in competing in the RFP process: Oshidori International Holdings, Casinos Austria, Pixel Companyz with Groupe Partouche, and a consortium of Get Nice Holdings and Current Corp.

However, the city has said it was in talks with three new potential private partners who were interested in competing.