Japan cabinet approves budget increase for casino regulator

The Japan Casino Regulatory Commission is set to receive US$25m in funding for the coming year.

Japan.- The cabinet has approved a draft budget that includes a 5.4 per cent year-on-year increase in funding for the Japan Casino Regulatory Commission (JCRC) for the financial year 2026. Under the proposal, the regulator’s annual budget would rise to JPY3.91bn (US$25m), up from JPY3.71bn (US$23m) in 2025.

Personnel-related expenses will continue to represent the largest share of spending. Staff costs are projected at JPY2.47bn (US$15.7m), accounting for 63.2 per cent of the budget and rising 9.3 per cent compared to the previous year. Staffing levels are expected to grow by just one position to 168.

Operational and administrative expenses are forecast at JPY580m (US$3,7m), 14.8 per cent of total expenditure. A further JPY630m (US$4m) has been earmarked for the development of supervisory frameworks for casino operators, including investigations and staff training.

Funds for the review of casino licences and equipment approval will remain unchanged at JPY220m (US$1,4m) and IT funds remain flat at JPY540m (US$3,4m). This is provided separately through Japan’s Digital Agency and is not included in the regulator’s main budget total.

The JCRC began activities in 2023 following the legalisation of integrated resorts in Japan. Its role will be important as development progresses on MGM Osaka, Japan’s first casino resort ahead of the opening scheduled for late 2030.

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The Japan Casino Regulatory Commission is set to receive US$25m in funding for the coming year. Japan.- The cabinet has approved a draft budget that includes a 5.4 per cent…