News analysis

Bribery scandal clouds Japan's integrated resorts plans

Japan has approved three integrated resorts, referring to mega-complexes that house casinos, hotels, shopping malls, entertainment facilities and exhibition spaces. PHOTO: REUTERS
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TOKYO - A bribery scandal has muddied Japan's bid to launch integrated resorts (IRs) in the decade, with the indictment of the ruling party lawmaker who was once in charge of steering IR policy.

Tsukasa Akimoto, 48, was charged this week with taking 3.7 million yen (S$45,170) in bribes from New York-listed, Shenzhen-based gambling operator 500.com. The sum included a trip to Hokkaido, where the company was keen to develop an IR.

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