Key Moments
- Japan’s cabinet approved a draft budget that increases funding for the Casino Regulatory Commission by 5.4% for FY2026.
- The proposed budget for 2026 totals JPY3.91 billion (US$25.0 million), up from JPY3.71 billion in 2025.
- The commission’s staff count will rise to 168 by the end of FY2026, a net increase of one position from FY2025.
Expansion in Casino Regulator’s Budget
Japan’s cabinet approved a draft budget that increases 2026 funding for the Japan Casino Regulatory Commission by 5.4% year-on-year. The planned budget reaches JPY3.91 billion (US$25.0 million), up from JPY3.71 billion in FY2025. This boost supports the commission’s regulatory and oversight responsibilities.
Breakdown of Budget Allocations
Personnel costs represent the largest share at JPY2.47 billion (US$15.8 million), or 63.2% of the total. This reflects a JPY0.21 billion annual rise. Administrative operations are allocated JPY580 million (US$3.7 million), which covers daily tasks and accounts for 14.8% of spending.
Another JPY630 million (US$4.0 million) is earmarked for developing supervision frameworks, including regulatory investigations and staff training. This accounts for 16.1% of the total budget. The budget for reviewing casino licenses and equipment approvals remains at JPY220 million (US$1.4 million), or 5.6% of the total.
| Expense Category | FY2026 Budget (JPY million) | FY2026 Budget (USD million) | Percent of Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personnel | 2,470 | 15.8 | 63.2% |
| Administrative Operations | 580 | 3.7 | 14.8% |
| Supervision Frameworks | 630 | 4.0 | 16.1% |
| Review of Licenses & Equipment | 220 | 1.4 | 5.6% |
Information Technology Systems Allocation
The commission allocated JPY540 million (US$3.5 million) for IT systems, unchanged from FY2025. These funds, supplied by Japan’s Digital Agency, cover development and maintenance of information systems for casino oversight. Note that this allocation is separate from the main FY2026 budget, so totals may not sum perfectly due to rounding.
Staffing Changes Remain Modest
Staff will increase to 168 by the end of FY2026, up from 167 in FY2025. Although three new secretariat roles were proposed, two positions were removed. This results in a net increase of just one staff member for the year.
Progress Toward MGM Osaka
The commission began license examinations and regulatory duties in FY2023. Japan’s first authorized casino, MGM Osaka, is still under development with a planned opening in late 2030. Public disclosures estimate the investment at JPY1.51 trillion (US$9.6 billion).
Leadership Developments
In June, Toshiyuki Shimada was appointed secretary-general of the commission starting July 1. He previously served as deputy secretary-general and held roles at the Ministry of Finance.
- Author
Daniel Williams
