US-based operator Bally’s Corporation has described Japan as an “extremely attractive market” for integrated resort investment.
Japan.- Bally’s Corporation is evaluating the possibility of bidding to run an integrated resort (IR) in Japan. Chairman Soo Kim described the country as “an extremely attractive market” and said the company would “definitely raise our hand” if an opportunity arises. The comments, reported by Nikkei Asia, come as Japan prepares for a second application window for IR licences.
Japan’s IR framework, enacted in 2018, allows for up to three large-scale casino resorts. To date, only one project has been approved: the Osaka IR led by MGM Resorts International and Orix Corporation. Construction is underway, with an opening targeted around 2030.
Two licences remain available, and the central government has provisionally scheduled a new application period from May to November 2027.
Aichi Prefecture has launched a request-for-opinion process regarding a possible IR on land at Chubu Centrair International Airport island, south of Nagoya. Meanwhile, Hokkaido authorities are considering allocating JPY9.98m (US$64,000) for research and review related to a potential casino resort.
Bally’s had considered taking part in the first application round, which closed in March 2022. At that time, the company explored the possibility of developing an IR in Fukuoka, but local authorities later suggested such a project was unlikely. Kim has said the group is closely monitoring developments as regional governments reassess their positions.
US-based operator Bally’s Corporation has described Japan as an “extremely attractive market” for integrated resort investment. Japan.- Bally’s Corporation is evaluating the possibility of bidding to run an integrated resort (IR) in Japan. Chairman Soo Kim described the country as “an extremely attractive market” and said the company would “definitely raise our hand” if an…
