Inside Asian Gaming

IAG JAPAN MAY 2021 52 T he Japan Casino Regulatory Commission published on 2 April 2021 its draft regulations governing the nation’s casino industry. Available for public comment until 9 May, the draft regulations are separated into the following four categories: 1. Basic casino operation items 2. Items related to operational activities 3. Items related to Stratified/multi-stage Duty of Loyalty and Measures to Prevent Internal Collusion 4. Items related to casino equipment IAG takes a closer look at some of the key takeaways from the draft regulations: COMPETENCE INVESTIGATION (SOCIAL CREDIBILITY) One of the standards for a casino license in Japan’s IR Development Act stipulates “social credibility” regarding operators (including executives) and major shareholders. Specifically, any applicant operator, major shareholder, holder of land or facility rights, or person of influence will be disqualified if any relation to organized crime becomes apparent. Social credibility is defined here as, “Whether or not there is risk of unlawfulness or dishonesty related to casino operations, for example in terms of legal compliance, activities in social life, economic status, or social or economic relationships with others.” The Japan Casino Regulatory Commission will conduct background checks to determine the social credibility status of all key personnel. JAPAN