Japan's Supreme Court has upheld a four-year prison sentence for former lawmaker Tsukasa Akimoto, who accepted bribes related to integrated resort (IR) licenses. Akimoto, a former Liberal Democratic Party politician, received $34,000 in gifts from Chinese gaming firm 500.com, including cash, airfare, and hotel stays during 2017-2018.

500.com, now known as Bit Mining Ltd., was recently indicted by US federal authorities for attempting to bribe Japanese officials to secure an IR resort bid. The company's consortium sought licenses in Hokkaido or Okinawa but ultimately withdrew its bid.

The Tokyo High Court's 2021 decision stands, requiring Akimoto to serve four years in prison and pay a fine of JPY7.6 million (US$48,284).

In related developments, Japan's National Diet has approved new members for the Casino Regulatory Commission. Key appointments include:

• Takafumi Sato as chair, succeeding Michio Kitamura (effective January 7, 2025)
• Junichi Kakimizu replacing Hiroyuki Ujikane
• Hirofumi Kitamura and Keiko Ishikawa continuing their terms
• Watari Michiko receiving reappointment for a second five-year term

Currently, only one casino license has been awarded in Japan, despite legislation allowing for three. MGM Resorts International and Orix Corporation are developing an $8 billion project in Osaka's Yumeshima Island, scheduled to open in late 2030.

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