Japan to set group to review feasibility of Hokkaido IR, casino

In Hokkaido’s prefectural legislature, members of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in Japan are reportedly setting up a working committee to look into the viability of Hokkaido serving as the site of an integrated resort (IR) including a casino. With support from IR experts from an accounting company, the working group plans to convene on December 15.

In Hokkaido’s 100-seat prefectural legislature, the LDP, which has 54 members, is evaluating whether or not to conduct an IR in the northernmost prefecture. The initiative is reportedly supported by other LDP legislators who represent Hokkaido in the Japanese parliament, as well as Koichi Hagiuda, the chairperson of the policy research committee at the LDP headquarters.

The decision was made in response to Kenji Koganezawa, the head of the Hokkaido Tourism Organization, expressing a desire to learn more about the possibility of a “green IR” in October. The term “green IR” describes an integrated resort development approach that prioritizes sustainability and environmental considerations.

Hokkaido turned down the invitation to bid on hosting a casino resort during Japan’s previous efforts at liberalization. Nonetheless, new discussions and the formation of a working group indicate a renewed interest in looking at the potential for the region to host an integrated resort.

The only city to get approval from the national government for a casino resort is Osaka, where MGM Resorts International and Japan’s Orix Corp. signed an implementation agreement in late September. Hokkaido’s move suggests that competition for an integrated resort license remains strong among Japanese regions.

Original story by: GGRAsia