Osaka has officially launched its RFP process after announcing it will accept operator proposals to develop an integrated resort from today.
The city and prefecture are hoping to open an IR before the 2025 World Expo, however Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura stated during a press conference on Wednesday, “Opening before the expo is not a red line. We want operators to tell us how long it will take for us to have a facility of the highest quality.”
The conditions required of operators include developing an international conference center with a capacity of over 6,000 guests as well as hotel facilities with over 3,000 rooms. The planned site covers 49 hectares on the northwestern section of the artificial island Yumeshima.
Operators are also being asked to shoulder JPY20.2 billion of the required JPY54 billion to extend the subway to Yumeshima and to take measures against problem gambling and threats to public safety.
The deadline for operators to confirm their RFP participation is 24 May 2019 with the deadline for submissions expected to be in August.
The national government is expected to establish its Fundamental Policy for IR facilities this summer. Osaka is acting in advance in order to fully understand the intentions of potential operators and ensure a smooth transition to the recruitment process scheduled in the fall.
Once the country’s Fundamental Policy is available, Osaka will finalize its facilities plan with the chosen operator and submit a formal application to the central government.
Japan will offer permits for a maximum of three IR facilities.
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