A basic agreement has been signed for an IR development in Nagasaki, with the prefecture selecting Casinos Austria International Japan (CAIJ) as its partner. Earlier this week, Nagasaki Governor Hodo Nakamura said that the agreement formally names the company as the operator of the venue.

Details of the Agreement

With the deal, area development will start first, with a plan to apply for certification to take place by late April of next year. The governor pointed out in the announcement that CAIJ is a global operator and offers services in many areas including Europe. The company provided a proposal that will help the IR reach the highest international standard.

The plan is for the project to move steadily forward. The Kyushu/Nagasaki IR will boost the tourism industry as well as the local economy. Both have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and revenues are much needed. The focus will also be placed on problem gaming, with efforts made to minimize concern.

CAIJ expects to pay JPY 350 billion ($3.2bn) to create the integrated resort, with over eight million visitors expected each year. The developer is using a unique concept to create the project, known as “Fusing East and West Cultures—Realizing a True Japanese—Western Blend”.

The prefecture would like to see a high-end integrated resort created that uses the strengths of Nagasaki and CAIJ to bring the project to life. President and CEO of CAIJ, Akio Hayashi, commented on the new deal, stating the company will work closely with Nagasaki and other prefectures to create an attractive IR that is not only safe but also beneficial to the region.

Wakayama Chooses a Partner Too

Nagasaki is not the only prefecture of Japan to choose an integrated resort partner. Last week it was announced that the Wakayama prefecture chose Clarivest Group as its developer and operator. The prefecture made the decision after an open recruitment process.

The company must meet certain stipulations in order to move forward with the IR project. Along with meeting such expectations, the company must also be approved by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism.

The prefecture has been wanting to work with Clarivest for quite some time. The company was the preferred operator and with the signing of a basic agreement, the choice is solidified. Wakayama will now focus on creating the plans for the project. The goal is to launch the All-Wakayama Plan, which will see local businesses taking part in the operation plan to further develop the economy and offer employment.