Washington, DC – American Gaming Association (AGA) President and CEO Geoff Freeman released the following statement in response to the passage of Japan’s IR Promotion bill:

“The passage of legislation in Japan that makes possible the development of integrated resorts is truly historic. After decades of study, it is clear that the expansion of our industry in Japan will produce many of the same results it has in the United States: growth in jobs, tax revenues for community services, increased travel and tourism from domestic and foreign visitors — and vast economic expansion. As progress continues, the American Gaming Association looks forward to providing partnership and support to Japan’s cultural, business and civic leaders.”

BACKGROUND

AGA has made significant efforts to educate Japanese lawmakers, media and other stakeholders and answer questions about a range of topics pertaining to casino gaming and its impacts. In April 2015 in New York and May 2015 in Tokyo, AGA hosted forums with Japanese media, member casino operators and experts who spoke on the economic benefits of gaming, the industry’s commitment to anti-money laundering practices, the importance of responsible gaming and the value of casinos as community partners. The Japan Times reported that the “U.S. gaming body offers to help Japan if casinos legalized.”

When Prime Minister Abe traveled to Washington, DC for a state visit last year, AGA hosted Japanese Diet members to further educate them about the gaming industry.

About AGA: The American Gaming Association is the premier national trade group representing the $240 billion U.S. casino industry, which supports 1.7 million jobs in 40 states. AGA members include commercial and tribal casino operators, suppliers and other entities affiliated with the gaming industry. It is the mission of the AGA to be the single most effective champion of the industry, relentlessly protecting against harmful and often misinformed public policies, and paving a path for growth, innovation and reinvestment.