Okinawa to set position on IRs after the election

As both gubernatorial candidates have opposite positions, the September 30 election will probably set whether Okinawa would push for an IR bid.

Japan.- The casino industry is soon to arrive in Japan after its respective legislation was passed earlier this year but where it will land is still unclear. Okinawa could be one of the candidates to push for an integrated resort (IR) bid, but that will be most likely determined in the gubernatorial election to be held next September 30.

As two gubernatorial candidates race to chair the Prefecture, Okinawa’s policy on IRs is at stake as they have exact opposite positions on the matter. Denny Tamaki, the liberal candidate is against the industry and stated: “Casinos are not needed. They are all about businesspeople from foreign countries coming here to steal the wealth of the Japanese people.”

On the other end stands Atsushi Sakima, the conservative candidate, who has PM Shinzo Abe’s support, who is in favour of the segment as he believes it would be positive for the prefecture. “Research and discussion are needed to explore the idea as a unique tourism resource for Okinawa,” he said.

Should Okinawa push and win an IR bid, some companies have already voiced their interest in developing a venue in the area. Zhengming Pan, CEO of the China-based online sports lottery provider 500.com said during a press conference in July that he’s interested in investing €2.15 billion in an integrated resort in the prefecture.