Universal Studios Japan is interested in a casino
As Japan may soon authorise land-based casinos, the Universal Studios Japan group is currently looking for a partner to develop a gambling establishment in their theme park in Osaka.
The management is currently talking to several gaming groups, including MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment and Genting Bhd.
A promising market
In a recent press conference, the CEO of Universal Studios Japan, Glenn Gumpel said that he would like to expand the parks attractions with more than just the theme park attractions.
He is particularly affected by the decision of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of the Liberal Democrats to introduce the legislation to legalize land-based casinos in the parliamentary session this autumn.
Universal Studios Japan are actively seeking a partnership with an international gaming operator. However, they are not the only ones.
Other Japanese companies, such as Sega Sammy Holdings Inc., Konami Corp or Dynam Japan Holdings Co. also want to put their foot in the market for land-based casinos in the country of the rising sun.
The Japanese market could even emerge as the second largest gaming market in the world, just behind Macao.
Some experts believe that the sector could reach revenues of 13 billion Euros by 2025 if it was legalised. Universal Studios Japan are hoping that their experience in operating a theme park, and marketing knowledge of the entertainment industry will help them to stand out from their competitors.
Local governments that are interested
The city of Osaka is currently talking to several operators including Caesars and MGMto build a casino complex worth 3.5 billion Euros.
This could be placed on an island located just 5 km from the Universal Studios Japan theme park.
Other local governments, such as Tokyo, Yokohama, Hokkaido, Nagasaki and Okinawa have also indicated that they are interested in opening a casino in their territory.
Different projects
In addition to the site in Osaka, Universal Studios Japan are also interested in Tokyo and Okinawa.
They are also planning to build a casino complex or a new theme park near the natural reserve of Nago in Okinawa.
They are also interested in expanding their business beyond Japan, and to invest in emerging markets such as China and Indonesia.
The group is currently in discussions with the Shenzhen Overseas Chinese Town group, and they are seriously considering building a theme park in Jakarta.
