Operator News
Japan – Nagasaki cuts it runners and riders from five to three
By Phil - 19 March 2021
Casinos Austria International, Oshidori International/Mohegan Gaming and a consortium made up of The Niki of Japan and the Chyau Fwu Parkview Group have all made it through to the next round of Nagasaki’s partner-selection process as the prefecture looks to land a licence for an Integrated Resort casino.
The announcement was made by Nagasaki Vice-Governor Ken Hirata, who wants the project to be developed at the Huis Ten Bosch theme park in Sasebo city with an investment of between US$3.2bn to US$4.2bn.
The two groups who missed out are French casino operator Partouche who partnered with Japanese energy company Pixel Companyz and Hong Kong-listed Get Nice Holdings, former operator of the Macau’s Grand Waldo, who teamed up with Japan’s Current Corporation.
The next stage involves ‘competitive dialogue’ with each contender with a probity test to take place in May. Presentations will be made in August with the prefecture aiming to have made up its mind by spring time of 2022.
Of the remaining bidders, Niki is a division of Niki Club, which previously ran NIKI Resort, a nature resort located in Nasu, whilst Chyau Fwu (Parkview) Group is part of Taiwanese construction company Chyau Fwu, which has experience in MICE and is currently building a ski resort in Hokkaido’s Niseko.
Casinos Austria International has said its project could include a Viennese Philharmonic Orchestra as a permanent fixture. The casino spa would have a special emphasis on state-of-the-art medical treatment.
Oshidori International Development Godogaisha, a Japanese company, and US operator Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment have teamed up for the remaining bid. They said they would collaborate in developing a world-class integrated resort, and also in creating a dynamic community for Nagasaki to become a premium travel destination and a premier residential choice.
