The Japan Casino Regulatory Commission has released a draft of proposed regulations that will govern the nation’s casino industry. The draft includes a list of nine games that are currently banned but set to be legalized as part of the government’s redevelopment plans for the industry.
The nine permitted games are baccarat (2 variants), blackjack (4 variants), craps, Casino War, money wheel, pai gow, poker (8 variants), roulette, and Sic Bo. Electronic games will also be permitted under the proposed guidelines. Notable exclusions from the list include traditional local games pachinko, pachislot, and mahjong.
The government is accepting public feedback on the draft regulations until May 9th. The regulations are expected to be finalized and signed into law shortly after the 9th.
The draft regulations stipulate that all major stakeholders and executives involved in the casino industry undergo background and suitability checks as the government looks to limit the involvement of organized crime in the industry and maintain a clean image.
Operators will be required to provide a consultation desk for any players who would like to discuss problem gambling. They must also ensure that any customers who are suspected of problem gambling are prevented from playing in the casino and banned from entry for a minimum period of 1 year. Following the ban, the operator must then limit the number of visits the customer can make each month.
On the casino floor, players cannot tip dealers, the time must be clearly displayed to all players, and ATMs are not allowed on the property. With regards to comps and bonuses, the draft also states that “Nothing that could potentially arouse the passion for gambling may be included.” However, there are no further details on this.
Although Japan’s casino industry will likely see a great deal of foreign investment, the Japan Casino Regulatory Commission has only released this draft of regulations in Japanese. However, as public feedback is accepted and the regulations evolve into a defined gambling act, analysts expect that a government translated version of the regulations will be made available to foreign investors.
Ciaran has been working within the Gambling Industry as a deep analyst since 2019. His deep knowledge and understanding of all the gambling regulations, and processes makes him a true asset, and an always valuable point of view for Gambling Industry News, allowing us to cover every topics from a brand new perspective.