A study session was held at the Prefectural Office on Jan. 17 at which three Fukuoka City Hall employees announced the findings of their research on the feasibility of operating casinos on foreign cruise ships. Casinos, including those on foreign cruise ships operating in Japanese territory, are currently prohibited under Japanese law, but Fukuoka City believes cruise ship casinos are necessary to attract foreign tourists.
Since last July, the three public servants have been investigating the possibility that the casino ban is adversely affecting the city’s ability to attract foreign tourists. They concluded that, because casinos on cruise ships are in enclosed spaces and the identities of all the passengers are confirmed, there is little risk of increased crime and police could respond quickly if any crimes were committed. They also recommended further discussions on legalizing casinos on cruise ships for the sake of their economic impact. Since it is not possible to establish special regional zones for the casinos, the staff suggested that Fukuoka City ask the national government to revise the current law since “a more flexible approach toward cruise ship casinos is desirable”. The trio’s findings will be printed in a research report which will be distributed to all sections of the Prefectural Office. Source: Nishinippon Shimbun Jan. 18
