Hokkaido stepping back from IR candidacy in 2027 application window: report

Japan’s Hokkaido prefecture will reportedly not submit an application for an integrated resort (IR) with casino during the next window to be opened by the national government from May 6 to November 5 next year. That is according to a Saturday report in the Hokkaido Shimbun newspaper, citing an internal decision of the prefectural government. The news outlet said such a decision could push any Hokkaido tilt at having an IR out to the year 2030, when the Hokkaido Shimbun suggests the national authorities might stage a third application round. Under current liberalisation arrangements, three IR licences are possible. So far only one – for MGM Osaka, due to open in late 2030 – has been awarded. The report of Hokkaido not aiming for the 2027 application round comes soon after the prefecture issued on October 15 a revised version of its “Basic stance on IR of Hokkaido prefecture” document. The news outlet said in its Saturday report, without identifying named sources: “Hokkaido prefecture has taken into consideration public opinion very carefully. The prefecture has been conducting its own procedures to reach a decision. “As a result, the prefecture has come to think that it would not be able to meet a deadline to submit an IR District Development Plan for the next application window.” The Hokkaido Shimbun added: “The prefecture will continue to work on the IR initiative as it anticipates positive economic ripple effects throughout the prefecture. “At this moment, the prefecture has not set a specific timeframe for the IR procedures.” The news outlet further noted: “To develop a basic concept for an IR in the prefecture, it may take about one year from now.” “After that, to work on statutory procedures – such as establishing an implementation policy, conducting a request-for-proposal to select an IR developer, and making an IR District Development Plan – may take approximately another year and a half.” Hokkaido had been discussed as a possible location for a Japanese IR in the run up to the first application window, but decided in late 2019 not to put itself forward for consideration.