Japan Targets Organised Crime Ahead of New Resort and Casino for World Expo

Japan has intensified its initiatives to combat organised crime, particularly focusing on the influence of groups like the Yakuza, which have historically been embedded in various sectors of society. A significant step in this direction is the Osaka Prefectural Government's revised ordinance aimed at severing financial ties between organised crime and the construction industry. 

Enforced recently, this ordinance enables immediate penalties against organisations and businesses linked to organised crime, especially during the colossal preparations for the 2025 World Exposition and an integrated resort, including a casino destination, expected in Osaka by 2030.  

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Legalisation of IR’s Paves Way for Casinos  

Yumeshima, Japan's artificial island, is set to become a major urban development hub featuring a new theme park and integrated resort (IR) alongside hosting the 2025 Osaka-Kansai World Expo. The Kansai Economic Federation aims to attract 30 million visitors post-Expo by enhancing accessibility through AI and IoT technologies. Osaka's Mayor Ichiro Matsui envisions Yumeshima as a competitive city akin to Tokyo, Shanghai, and Singapore, with the IR expected to open by 2024. 

In July 2018, Japanese lawmakers approved a bill that officially allows casinos in the country. Osaka is a top contender for one of the initial three IR licenses. 

The project will involve a significant investment of JPY930 billion (approximately US$8.3 billion) from local governments. 

The Expo venue will feature multiple themed worlds designed to foster visitor interactions. The IRs will come with restrictions and Japanese locals will only be able to visit the casinos three times per week, or ten times a month. Japanese visitors will also be charged a 6,000 yen entrance fee to help discourage addiction.  

Japan Ranks Lower Than UK on Organised Crime Index 

Japan ranks 142nd out of 193 countries on a Criminality Score in the Global Organised Crime Index. In comparison, the UK has a Criminality Score of 5.75, placing it at 61st out of 193 countries. Myanmar, Columbia and Mexico, take the top three spots of countries for organised crime. 

Japan’s comprehensive efforts to tackle organised crime are not isolated to the construction industry. The Osaka ordinance extends to the sex work industry, addressing street solicitation and related activities with similar punitive measures. This comprehensive approach is indicative of a growing recognition of organised crime's varied operational fronts in Japan.  

Government Aims to Educate Japanese Public 

The government is actively raising public awareness about these measures through a robust public relations campaign designed to inform operators about the new penalties. In July, police patrolled at-risk areas, distributing educational materials about the ordinance and reiterating their commitment to eliminate organised crime’s influence.  

Internationally, Japan is recognized for its engagement in multilateral treaties aimed at curbing transnational crime, particularly in areas like drug trafficking, human smuggling, and wildlife trade. Japan's law enforcement has been bolstered through stricter sentencing for organised crime-related offenses, including landmark sentences against senior mafia leaders.

Japan Faces Challenges of Sex and Human Trafficking 

Despite these progressive measures, challenges remain. Japan's geographic isolation and stringent immigration policies have attracted organised crime networks, making it crucial for the government to continuously adapt and strengthen its legislative framework against evolving criminal tactics. 

For instance, the emergence of new groups like Hangure, which operate in a grey area between organised crime and conventional criminality, presents ongoing concerns as they engage in activities such as extortion and fraud.

In terms of human trafficking, Japan faces persistent challenges, particularly in relation to foreign victims. Although efforts have been made to provide support and training for law enforcement, gaps in services and protections for vulnerable populations remain. NGOs report difficulties in translating anti-trafficking materials into accessible resources for victims, which hinders identification and support efforts.  

Overall, Japan's targeted approach to tackling organised crime reflects a commitment to safeguarding public safety. By reinforcing regulations, promoting collaboration with law enforcement, and enhancing transparency, Japan is making strides in its ongoing battle against organised crime while also continuing to adapt to emerging threats.