Japan: Osaka may conduct public opinion research on casino development

Contrary to the opinion to expect casino’s effect on economic growth, there are strong opinions to request prudent consideration on the negative effect such as the possibility to enhance gamble dependence. Based on these circumstances, Osaka prefecture would like to conduct public research on casino with residents and utilize such result into the invitation of casino to its region.

Currently casino is prohibited by its criminal code in Japan and “International Sightseeing Industry Development Congress Members Association” was established by bipartisan members in April to aim at legalization of casino in Japan. Chairman of the Association is Mr. Issei Koga, DPJ’s member of the House of Representatives and the Association is discussing the approach to have casino as exception of the gamble prohibition at Criminal Code by the arrangement to have administration and control of casinos extremely strict to be conducted by national and local governments.

On the other hand, Osaka prefecture established “Osaka Entertainment City Project Promotion Committee” in July. This committee has held general assembly three times by now and has conducted profound discussion regarding the effect of casino legalization towards young generation.

In addition, it has conducted research on foreign example as for the basis of consideration for economic effect of casino invitation. It is said that total of 35 thousand direct employment was effectuated by the opening of two casinos in Singapore.