MGM Resorts International and its partners have officially begun work on Japan’s first casino-integrated resort in Osaka. The groundbreaking ceremony for the ambitious project will take place on April 24, marking a significant step forward in Japan’s gaming industry. The project, valued at JPY1.27 trillion (approximately $8.6 billion), is located on Yumeshima, a 700-acre artificial island in Osaka Bay.

MGM Resorts’ CEO Bill Hornbuckle confirmed during the company’s fourth-quarter earnings call that the groundwork for the resort had been progressing as planned, with full-scale construction set to commence following the completion of land preparation this year. He also emphasized that the launch of a new subway station at Yumeshima in January was a major milestone in improving infrastructure for future visitors, according to GGRAsia.

A Transformational Project for Japan’s Tourism Sector

The Osaka integrated resort is a collaborative effort between MGM Resorts International and Japan’s Orix Corporation, with each holding a 42.5% stake. Additional investors from Japan have also contributed to the project. The resort will span 52 acres, featuring three luxury hotels offering 2,500 rooms, a vast 730,000-square-foot convention center, and a casino occupying just 3% of the indoor space.

MGM Resorts has reaffirmed that the integrated resort remains on schedule for a late 2030 opening. Despite past delays due to regulatory hurdles and the COVID-19 pandemic, the project continues to move forward as planned. Once operational, the resort is expected to draw millions of visitors annually, including an estimated 6 million international tourists and 14 million domestic visitors.

Japan’s move into the casino industry follows legislative changes in 2018 that eased restrictions on gaming. MGM Resorts has positioned itself at the forefront of this emerging market, solidifying Osaka’s role as a premier destination for entertainment and hospitality.

Strong Performance in Macau and Market Optimism

During the earnings call, MGM Resorts also reported strong financial results from its Macau operations. The company achieved record earnings for MGM China, driven by sustained post-Chinese New Year gaming demand. Kenneth Feng, president of MGM China, noted an 18% increase in traffic compared to the previous year’s holiday period, with gaming volumes also showing improvement.

MGM Resorts continues to be a dominant player in the Macau market, maintaining a mid-teens percentage market share in gross gaming revenue. Additionally, its entertainment ventures, such as the residency show Macau 2049 and the Poly MGM Museum, have contributed to increased non-gaming revenues and foot traffic.

The company’s global expansion strategy remains on track, with Japan’s Osaka integrated resort serving as a pivotal development in MGM’s long-term growth. As Japan enters the casino sector, the Osaka IR is set to become a major driver of tourism, economic growth, and entertainment innovation.