Shinzo Abe’s exit could impact gaming sector

Japan’s prime minister has resigned due to health concerns.

Japan.- Shinzo Abe, prime minister of Japan, has resigned due to health concerns.

At a press conference in Tokyo, he said: “Even though there is one year to go in my tenure and there are challenges to be met, I have decided to stand down as prime minister”.

He also apologised to the Japanese people for being unable to fulfil his duties during the pandemic.

Abe’s term of office was due to run until September next year.

He revealed he has been struggling with a chronic disease of the digestive system for eight years. He had successfully controlled the illness until June, when a medical check-up revealed concerns.

Abe’s government had strongly supported the project to introduce integrated resorts to Japan.

Japan’s initiative to licence an initial three IRs nationally has faced a number of headwinds, with potential host cities and private partners still waiting for the national government to publish its basic policy.

Cities such as Yokohama and Osaka are interested in hosting an IR but have had to postpone projects until central government clarifies conditions for the developments.