Japanese lawmakers started debate today on a bill to legalize casinos.

Japan now allows betting on horses and other forms of racing.

But Prime Minister Shinzo Abe wants to introduce resort casinos to boost tourism and local economies.

Abe toured Singapore’s casinos in May and said they could be a pillar for his Abenomics growth strategy.

With the world's third-largest economy and proximity to wealthy Asian gamblers, Japan is thought to be a potential market for casino operators.

But opponents warn of security and addiction issues that accompany casinos.

The bill will remain under deliberation, as there won’t be enough time for a vote during the current session of parliament.