There has been stiff opposition to the bill. But the strong backing of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s ruling coalition and the opposition Japan Innovation Party helped seal the deal for the bill.
Japan’s parliament has passed the controversial Integrated Resort bill, which will open the doors for the country’s first legal casino.
There has been stiff opposition to the bill. But the strong backing of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s ruling coalition and the opposition Japan Innovation Party helped seal the deal for the bill.
Under the new law, integrated resorts, which comprise international conference halls, exhibition facilities and hotels, as well as casinos, may be opened.
The new law imposes admission restrictions on Japanese casino guests. They will be allowed to enter casinos up to three days a week and 10 days a month, and charged admission of US$53.4 (6000 yen) per day.
“My Number” ID cards will be used to check how many times Japanese nationals as well as foreign nationals living in Japan enter casinos.
The Japanese government intends to limit the floor space of casinos to 3% of the resort’s total floor space. Spaces such as aisles and eating and drinking areas will not be included in the casino’s floor space.
Seven years after the location of the nation’s first IR is designated, it will become possible to review the number of locations where IRs can be established.
Some local governments have already expressed a willingness to attract IRs. The locations of the resorts are expected to increase in number in the future. Opening a casino will be subject to consent from a local government hosting the facility.