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Packer says no intention for Japan expansion


Gaming mogul James Packer says he has no intentions to expand his gaming empire to Japan, and would rather focus on developing Crown’s flagship casino in Sydney.

Speaking to local newspaper, The Australian, Packer said he did not want management “distracted” by participating in any competitive bidding process for an IR in Japan. He also shelved plans for a Las Vegas casino, and spoke about the demerger from Melco Resorts.

"There isn't a great opportunity to get back into Vegas. And there isn't an opportunity to get back into Macau. I don't want our management to be distracted," said Packer.

"People talk to me about Japan. I don't believe it is realistic for us to win a licence in Japan,” he added.

Crown as of late has also been battling allegations that its Melbourne casino has been tampering with slot machines.

The company has hit back against Independent MP Andrew Wilkie with an open letter accusing him of playing political games.

According to local media, Crown took a full-page advertisement in News Corp and Fairfax newspapers to "emphatically reject" the allegations brought on by Mr Wilkie.

Crown executive chairman John Alexander said he was angered and disappointed by the outrageous allegations" and accused Mr. Wilke of trying to unfairly smear Crown with unfounded allegations.

"Mr Wilkie has said he does not know if the allegations he has referred to, and repeated, are in fact true," said Mr. Alexander.

"If he believes he has evidence of wrongdoing, he should stop the political games, step out of the parliament and make his claims without privilege.

"He should also report any information he has in his possession directly to the relevant authorities."

The Victorian gaming regulator is currently investigating the allegations made by Mr. Wilkie, and is aiming to report back within a few weeks.

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