The Government of Fiji is now inviting expressions of interest for the development and operation of its first casino from internationally successful full-casino developers and operators that are reputable and would enhance Fiji’s brand.
The Attorney General and Minister for Tourism, Mr Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the government is looking at this development as a means of attracting more visitors and also increasing length of visitor stay particularly from new emerging markets of China, Europe, and India as well as building upon the USA market which has a lot of potential.
“The obvious economic benefits from such development and which will create another segment in the tourism sector, will be job creation as well as additional revenue for the government,” he added.
The Minister however stressed the government will ensure that the casino development does not erode the strengths of Fiji’s tourism brand.
“While casino operations means Fiji is developing leisure activities for the tourism industry, at the same time we do not want to harm Fiji’s tourism brand which the government and the people of Fiji have invested so much in.”
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum has also assured that there will be laws put in place to protect the people of Fiji and minimise any possible negative social impacts as a result of casino operations in the country.
“Such protective mechanisms have been successfully implemented in countries such as Malaysia and Singapore,” he said.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said the development of a casino could also include a convention facility.
The Minister highlighted, invitations for expressions of interest, have already been advertised in ‘The Economist’ and it is available on their website as well.
“Expressions of interest will also be soon advertised internationally in other magazines as well as specific representations being made to particular casino operators and developers who have a credible track record,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.
An advertisement for expressions of interest will also be published locally.
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