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, previously serving in the House of Representatives, was convicted of accepting $34,000 in gifts from Chinese gaming firm 500.com between 2017 and 2018.

The bribes included cash, airfare, and hotel accommodations. 500.com, now known as Bit Mining Ltd., was recently indicted by US federal authorities for attempting to bribe Japanese officials to secure a casino resort bid. The company had sought licenses in Hokkaido or Okinawa but later withdrew its bid.

Despite Japan authorizing up to three casino licenses in 2018, only one has been awarded. MGM Resorts International and Orix Corporation are developing an $8 billion project in Osaka, scheduled to open in late 2030.

The Supreme Court's decision maintains the Tokyo High Court's 2021 ruling, which includes a JPY7.6 million ($48,284) fine alongside the prison term.

In related developments, Japan's National Diet has approved new members for the Casino Regulatory Commission. Takafumi Sato will assume the chairmanship on January 7, 2025, succeeding Michio Kitamura. Junichi Kakimizu will join as a new commissioner, while Hirofumi Kitamura and Keiko Ishikawa will continue their terms. Commissioner Watari Michiko is set for reappointment to a second five-year term.

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