Operator News

Japan – Galaxy Entertainment confirms ninth expression of interest in Japan IRs

By Phil - 21 November 2019

Macau casino operator Galaxy Entertainment has gone all in on expansion in Japan with confirmation it has lodged its interest in eight Japanese localities with a ninth to come

Galaxy Entertainment Group Vice Chairman Francis Lui said: “Galaxy remains fully supportive of the Japanese Government’s goals to introduce a globally renowned IR and MICE industry to Japan. In support of this, we have been conducting a careful evaluation of multiple locations, and have been an active and willing partner with many cities, prefectures and government agencies, in sharing information, ideas and our experience, to assist them in thoroughly evaluating the opportunities that IR’s can create for Japan.

“To date, we have responded to eight cities and prefectures for requests for information or requests for concepts including most recently in Osaka and we are now preparing for Yokohama. And we look forward to continuing with this process to ensure the best possible IR will be developed for Japan.

“We are encouraged to see news this week of the Japanese Government’s timeline relating to IR certification applications which will take place in the first half of 2021, signalling the beginning of the formal bidding process for selected sites, which is scheduled to take place in 2020.

“With extensive experience in developing world-class IRs and considerable financial strength including a strong balance sheet, Galaxy is well positioned to assist in developing a uniquely Japanese IR experience, attracting in-bound travellers from around the world and arranging for tourists to visit locations throughout the country.”