According to local media outlets, the Bureau International des Exposition is asking to postpone the construction of the proposed Osaka integrated resort for at least six months. The organization oversees the upcoming World Fair or Expo 2025.
Still, this might have major consequences for the timeline. On the one hand, MGM Resorts International and its local partner have been willing to pay up to $9.1 billion for the project. On the other hand, another price spike is expected to occur, making the total cost much higher.
Nevertheless, the most recent conflict is just the latest in a string of setbacks that can affect financial outcomes and lengthen the time it takes to pay back the investment. According to pay per head sportsbook experts, MGM Resorts International is well-positioned, having gained access to the country’s first integrated resort. In addition, it is ready to capitalize on it.
Delays with the Proposed Osaka Integrated Resort
Due to the enormous difficulties inherent in the lengthy regulatory procedure, the building work requirements, and the upfront cost, other projects will also not be forthcoming very soon. The NIMBYs in Japan have also been a hindrance.
Despite their tight lips, MGM Resorts International had hoped that the integrated resort would be ready for the 2025 Expo—a time when there would have been a massive influx of tourists—but delays, a worldwide economic downturn, geopolitical crises, and a deadly pandemic all conspired to derail this target. Instead of preparing for the integrated resort in Japan, they could consider learning how to become a bookie in other parts of the globe.
On the surface, MGM Resorts International appears to be doing well. During the most recent quarterly earnings call, business president and CEO Bill Hornbuckle stated that progress in Japan was good. They reiterated that the project is targeting a launch in 2030, maybe a year sooner or later.
But his remarks came before rumors spread that the BIE is seeking a construction break, perhaps so the World Fair wouldn’t have to compete with the clamor and noise of the site’s ongoing renovations. Some intriguing possibilities would arise as a result of such a postponement. While this was happening, there was talk of implementing a levy to fund improvements to local infrastructure and mitigate the strain that increasing tourists would have on that infrastructure.
Thailand to Build Integrated Resorts
To provide just one example, Thailand plans to construct a project in the area that will compete with the Osaka integrated resort. Getting first dibs can give the project a head start and temporarily demote MGM Resorts International.
Japan and Thailand will have equal clients, so their short-term success won’t dictate the region’s long-term prospects. However, they will determine how to attract enough tourists to keep the integrated resort model on the books.
In any case, Hornbuckle may be downcast if the building is delayed by six months; he had thought everything was moving forward nicely except for this unexpected setback. If you want to learn more about this topic, make sure you interact with bookies via our forum.