Inside Asian Gaming

IAG MAY 2020年5月 亞博匯 48 JAPAN Tomo Yamamoto: Can you tell us about the Association for Business of Integrated Resort and its work to date? Natsuna Sakurai: Our organization was established about five years ago. We have held IR seminars for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Tokyo and Osaka, and we have been involved in the exchange of opinions between various industries. There are many SMEs in the Kansai area who have demonstrated particular interest in an IR bid. We have also discussed with a number of different parties what sort of IR would be best for an economic ripple effect throughout the entire nation of Japan. The objective of our activities is to benefit the local economy. TY: What is your individual role in all of this? NS: I have continued to be active in Osaka, where I am based. In addition to speaking at seminars we hold and traveling to give lectures, I am also providing consultations for companies. I have listened to the opinions on IRs from those who are involved in local revitalization efforts, and participated in volunteer activities in regional events. In order for an IR to become a main tourist attraction for the area and become accepted by the local residents, it is necessary to not only grasp the general discussion but to collect each talking point properly. I feel this work is closely related to my previous experience in the educationandwelfare fields, but these industries are also very aware of their relationship to IRs. The relationship may not be obvious, but overseas IR operators are very active and diverse in their contributions to society. They have volunteer corps to support the elderly and provide youth with work Director of the Association for Business of Integrated Resort, Natsuna Sakurai. IR商業研究會會長櫻井夏奈。