Four local economic groups announced on Monday an “emergency joint declaration” to make an integrated resort a reality in Hokkaido.
The four groups include Hokkaido Economic Federation, The Federation of Hokkaido Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Hokkaido Keizai Doyukai and Hokkaido Tourism Organization.
While Hokkaido has shown a keen interest in an IR bid, at this point no final decision has been made with Governor Naomichi Suzuki recently outlining plans to declare the prefecture’s position by the end of the year. However, the “emergency joint declaration” can be seen as an attempt to force a final decision even sooner.
The declaration is made up of two main points: that an IR will spark the Hokkaido economy and should be one of the three locations chosen by the national government in order to ensure maximum contribution to realizing Japan’s tourism goals; and that the prefecture needs to officially express interest in an IR bid and start procedures, such as drafting an implementation policy, as soon as possible.
It also points to infrastructure initiatives already under way in Hokkaido, such as the Upopoi (Ainu museum), privatization of the seven airports in Hokkaido, extension of the Hokkaido Shinkansen to Sapporo, the Adventure Travel World Summit, registration of the Jomon Ruins as a world heritage site and a bid for the Winter Olympics, stating, “If a Hokkaido IR that properly showcases the regions rich nature and cuisine was involved in these projects, it would provide huge mutual benefits and would provide a means to show the world how great Hokkaido is.”
Five international casino operators have confirmed their participation in the upcoming 1st Japan IR Expo in Hokkaido on 11 and 12 December, namely Melco Resorts & Entertainment, SJM Holdings, Hard Rock International, Rush Street Japan and Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment.
