MGM Resorts is stepping up its efforts to enter what is poised to become the world’s second-largest casino market—Japan. And the company’s first order of business? Open a larger Tokyo office.

The Las Vegas-based casino operator is in the midst of expanding its presence in Japan, a move that could take 30 days to complete. MGM Resorts Chairman and CEO James Murren was quoted by Reuters saying that they “are going to have a larger office here in Tokyo.”

In fact, Murren said they already hired 15 new staffers in Japan, who will focus on areas such as market research as well as build connections with local companies. At least eight of the new staff will be based in Tokyo.

MGM Resorts was among the first companies that have thrown its hat into the ring for a chance to open one of Japan’s first integrated resorts. In November, Murren said they are willing to invest between JPY500 billion and JPY1 trillion (USD4.8 billion-USD9.5 billion) to open an integrated resort in Tokyo, Yokohama or Osaka by 2022 or 2023.