Osaka’s IR Project Gets Support from Political Heavyweight

The final leg of Japan’s integrated resort (IR) plans is rapidly approaching. With only a few months remaining until proposals must be submitted, Osaka is bringing in a well-connected individual. City and prefectural authorities have appointed Hiroto Izumi, a former adviser to two Japanese prime ministers, as their aide in Osaka’s urban planning. This includes the development of a casino resort, which if approved by Japan’s national government, might be launched in 2029.

Osaka Finds High-Profile Support
Osaka’s online comment phase for its casino proposal will run from January 21 to February 21 of next year. The national government will decide by the end of April on any submissions made by local governments in order to host an IR.

Local media reports that Mr Izumi will serve as an advisor for the period January 1, 2022, through March 31, 2023. He is a former official of Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism. According to GGRAsia, Izumi served as an adviser to former prime ministers Yoshihide Sug and Shinzo Abe. Both were supporters of Japan’s casino liberalization policy.

Osaka’s authorities intend to submit the final draft for its District Development Plan, including its proposed casino scheme in Yumeshima, to the prefectural assembly in February and March of next year. Osaka would then submit its proposal to the Japanese Diet in April, ahead of the April 28 deadline.

Source: https://www.gamblingnews.com/news/osakas-ir-project-gets-support-from-political-heavyweight/