Clarion Events, producer of London’s ICE Totally Gaming trade show, announced the second installment of the Japan Gaming Congress, to be held in partnership with Japanese firm Hakuhodo May 10-12 in Tokyo.
The announcement comes against the backdrop of Japan’s newly passed Promotional Bill, which legalizes casino gambling and paves the way for integrated resorts to be established in the country within the next 12 months.
“Japan has taken a major step forward which will see it become one of the next gambling superpowers,” said Kate Chambers, managing director, gaming for Clarion Events. “The opportunity to bring leading industry figures together represents a truly unique opportunity for dialogue with key government officials and international stakeholders on the proposed requirements. We are delighted to have the opportunity to host this event once again, and look forward to welcoming the gaming community in May.”
With prominent shares in various Japanese firms reaching an all-time high and key operators vying for their share of the potential $40 billion market, the trade show, known as JgC 2, will offer the opportunity for stakeholders to join key government officials, global gaming groups, constructors, financial institutions and legal experts as they provide advice and experiences on the proposed regulatory frameworks, which will help in planning entry strategy into the market accordingly.
Kevin Sullivan, managing director of Boyd Gaming Japan Development Company—who will be speaking at JgC 2—said, “Boyd Gaming is excited by the potential opportunities that Japan has to offer. It’s one of the most highly anticipated nations to welcome our industry in recent years, and we’re eager to bring our expertise to the Japanese market, helping it to fulfill its amazing potential. We’re looking forward to JgC 2, as it will be an ideal opportunity for Boyd Gaming to connect with the local market and make the initial steps needed to create some of the world’s best integrated resorts.”
“Japan has taken a significant step forward today with the news that it has passed the IR bill,” said Futoshi Kawanishi, deputy general manager for themed marketing business development at Hakuhodo Inc. “The opportunity is vast, and it will bring a huge boost to the economy here in Japan. We are delighted to be working with Clarion Events once again in what will be valuable discussion into IR development in the country.”
