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 was convicted of receiving $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 allegedly bribing Japanese officials to secure a casino resort bid. The company had sought licenses in Hokkaido or Okinawa but later withdrew its bid.

Currently, Japan has awarded only one of its three authorized casino licenses. MGM Resorts International and Orix Corporation are developing an $8 billion resort in Osaka, scheduled to open in late 2030.

In addition to upholding Akimoto's prison sentence, the court maintained his fine of JPY7.6 million ($48,284).

Separately, Japan's National Diet has approved new appointments to the Casino Regulatory Commission. Key changes include:

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

The five-member commission operates as an external Cabinet bureau, overseeing casino establishment and operations safety in Japan.

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