Japan Casino Regulatory Commission Takes Shape with New Members

Japan's Casino Regulatory Commission is experiencing major changes to its leadership structure as it progresses with the construction of its first integrated resort (IR) – MGM Osaka. On December 17^th, the country's parliament, the Diet, approved three appointments, including two new members and one reappointment.

The reshuffle is part of the Japanese government's ongoing effort to mold the commission to oversee the establishment and operation of entertainment complexes nationwide. The Japan Casino Regulatory Commission, established in 2020, ensures the continuity of its leadership structure with new appointments every five years.

Members Joining the Authority

Takafumi Sato, previously serving as a Takamatsu High Public Prosecutors Office's superintendent prosecutor, will take over as the commission's new chair. He will replace Michio Kitamura, a former Fukuoka High Public Prosecutors Office superintendent prosecutor. Kitamura played a significant role in setting the foundation for IRs in Japan.

The Commission also onboarded Junichi Kakimizu, a former National Tax College head under the National Tax Agency. Meanwhile, psychiatrist Michiko Watari, who joined the authority in 2020, will serve another five-year term following her reappointment.

Members Stepping Down

Only two members will step down when the new team takes over on January 7^th, 2025. Along with outgoing chair Kitamura, Hiroyuki Ujikane, a former Nagoya Regional Taxation Bureau head, will step down. Both members have served the commission since it was founded in 2020.

The commission will retain two members who have yet to complete their terms: Keiko Ishikawa, a Nihon University economics professor, and Hirofumi Kitamura, a former Nagoya Regional Taxation Bureau head. Their mastery of law enforcement and economics is valuable to the regulatory body's ability to manage the establishment of IRs.

MGM Osaka and Broader IR Initiatives

Japan is well on its way to opening the doors of its first integrated casino resort, MGM Osaka, in late 2030. The historic project underscores the country's commitment to becoming a premier world destination for tourism, business, and entertainment. The stringent regulatory framework set by the commission ensures it is well-prepared for the complexities accompanying a project as massive as the Osaka IR.

Japan is also learning from thriving international practices. Three members of the regulatory commission toured Crown Sydney's members-only facility in the company of Australia's New South Wales Independent Casino Commission (NICC) officials. NICC chief commissioner Philip Crawford stated that Japan has the advantage of learning the regulatory frameworks of well-established international systems. It can apply strong oversight and community engagement in future IR approvals.