As lawmakers discuss reintroducing a bill to legalize casino-style gambling during the current Diet session, Osaka and Yokohama are reportedly favorites to host the first resort complexes with casinos.
But concerns over a rise in gambling addiction and other social issues are also increasing.
In particular, many members of Komeito, the junior coalition partner, fear such adverse impacts. This means it remains unclear whether casino gambling will come to Japan anytime soon.