Government Revives Integrated Resort (IR) Ambitions
Japan has officially reopened its bid process for Integrated Resort (IR) licenses, setting its sights on establishing two new major casino hubs by 2027. The move, announced by the country’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, signals renewed momentum in Japan’s long-anticipated journey toward developing a world-class casino industry.
The reactivation of the IR bid process comes after the prolonged delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted initial plans to approve projects in cities like Osaka and Yokohama. Under the new framework, regional governments are invited to submit proposals, with a deadline set for late 2025, and project completion targeted within two years thereafter.
Osaka Leads the Pack
Currently, Osaka Prefecture, in partnership with MGM Resorts and local firm Orix Corporation, remains the frontrunner with its ambitious $10 billion casino resort proposal on Yumeshima Island. The project has already received preliminary national approval and is expected to be Japan’s first operational IR, potentially opening in 2030 if all approvals and construction milestones are met.
Meanwhile, other prefectures such as Nagasaki and Wakayama, which had earlier expressed interest in IR development, may re-enter the bidding process. Their previous applications were stalled due to financial uncertainties and lack of operator commitments.
Economic Impact and Regulatory Safeguards
Japan’s renewed IR strategy is underpinned by goals to boost tourism, generate billions in tax revenue, and stimulate regional economies. According to a 2023 report by Global Market Advisors, Japan’s IR market could generate $20 billion annually, rivaling major gaming hubs like Singapore and Macau.
To address concerns around gambling addiction and financial crime, the government reaffirmed stringent regulatory measures, including mandatory entry levies for locals, strict age verification, and advanced anti-money laundering protocols.
With a clearer roadmap now in place, Japan’s IR race is once again wide open, poised to reshape the Asia-Pacific casino landscape.
