Japan Reopens IR Licensing Bid; Targets Two New Casino Hubs by 2027

Japan’s government is reigniting its integrated resort (IR) ambitions, targeting approval for up to two complexes by late 2027 despite prior delays. A fresh licensing round will commence in 2026, with formal applications speculated to start that December. Prospective regions to host the developments must submit detailed “IR District Development Plans” aligning with national tourism and economic goals.

A cabinet-ordered public consultation phase outlining application protocols is included in the preparations, which are scheduled from August to December 2025. This window is timed right after July’s Upper House election.

New License Contenders Emerge

Japan’s casino expansion efforts remain anchored on the MGM Osaka project, the sole approved IR. The JPY1.27 trillion (US$8.9 billion) resort is under construction on Yumeshima Island, targeting a 2030 opening through an MGM-Orix Corp partnership. With two new licenses up for grabs, attention shifts to Hokkaido and Tokyo, both signaling renewed interest despite prior hesitations and legal hurdles.

Hokkaido, which withdrew from initial bidding in 2019, is reportedly reconsidering participation amid local government support. Meanwhile, Tokyo has advanced feasibility studies and is viewed as a likely participant despite previously being noncommittal. Formal announcements have yet to be made.

Regulatory Momentum Builds

Japan’s Casino Regulatory Commission, having issued only one of three available IR licenses in 2023, is now prioritizing accelerated development under a restructured team led by Chairman Takafumi Sato. The renewed regulatory urgency signals a desire to advance stalled casino projects and tap into the sector’s economic potential.

Global operators remain cautious, awaiting clarity on transparency standards, profit-sharing frameworks, and foreign ownership rights. Analysts suggest MGM Osaka’s 2030 launch—a litmus test of Japan’s IR model—could sway investor confidence if executed successfully. With Tokyo’s potential entry and regulatory reforms underway, industry analysts predict a narrow window for Japan to capitalize on the land-based casino industry before regional competitors gain further ground.

Eyes on MGM Osaka

MGM Osaka’s setup as Japan’s inaugural casino resort is drawing attention as a benchmark for the sector’s viability. The complex will feature three hotels, a 3,000-seat theater, and a gaming floor with 6,400 slots and 470 table games. However, the casino floor will only comprise 3% of the IR’s footprint. MGM President of Global Development Ed Bowers projected the resort could funnel US$750 million annually to the national government and US$1.1 billion in taxes and entry fees to Osaka.