Japan’s Nagasaki Prefecture says the Request for Proposal (RFP) process to select private sector partners in relation to casino resorts has been conducted in a “fair manner.” In response to GGRAsia’s inquiry, it added that authorities will continue to act in such a manner “while we prepare to fill out the application for the National IR Development Plan”.
The latter refers to an integrated resort (IR) as a large casino complex with tourist facilities is known in Japan, referring to the need for local governments to apply to state authorities for the right to attract the development.
On Aug. 10, Nagasaki Prefecture authorities (pictured) said they had chosen Casino Austria International Japan Inc. “first” as a partner to change the local government’s stance on casino resorts.
However, one of the other contenders, the Japanese company Niki Chyau Fwu (Parkview) Group, questioned the integrity of Nagasaki’s selection process, according to reports in Japanese media.
Even before the selection of Casino Austria was announced, Osidori International Development Inc., part of Osidori International Holdings Ltd., the other suitor among the three Nagasaki, issued a statement saying it was “considering withdrawing from the RFP process unless it was conducted in an ethical manner.”
One of the questions raised later was whether Nagasaki was fair in applying background check tests related to the suing agency.
“Casino Austria International Japan has been selected as the preferred bidder after an overall evaluation of five different evaluation sections,” Nagasaki’s integrated resort promotion unit said in an emailed response to GGRAsia on Friday
Background checks were applied equally to all applicants,’ he added
To date, GGRAsia has asked Nagasaki Prefecture whether it has received complaints or requests to re-evaluate the review process regarding Nagasaki IR partner candidates and their respective business proposals.
“We cannot disclose information about individual applicants to complete the fair bidding process because the tender has not yet been completed,” the authorities responded.
In Japan, up to three casino resorts are allowed under the liberalization regime.
Nagasaki says it expects to submit it to its government by spring 2022.
BY: 파워볼사이트