Granada.Spain
Granada. Spain
Minister of Finance and Public Administration of the Andalusia government, María
Jesús Montero, commented that the decision was in response to local businessmen
in the area who had pointed out the benefits of the industry.
Casinos currently operating in Andalusia registered 350,000 visits and
generated around €191 million in 2016. In addition, the new casino could create
500 direct jobs and would also serve as a tourist attraction whereby overnight
stays would increase.
According to estimates, the casino could welcome as many as 50,000 visits in
the first year of operation. Montero, who met with government delegate in the
province, Sandra García, to analyse the terms of the tender, explained that the
gambling sector as a whole represents 1.16 % of GDP in Andalusia and generates
a total of 8,000 direct jobs.
Once the order has been published operators will
have three months in which to present their proposed projects. Montero told
press that the region has exclusive jurisdiction when it comes to gaming.
In addition, the autonomous community is responsible for the concession and
authorisation of any new casino licences through a public tender process during
which the total investment for the project, the financial standing of the
potential investor and the impact the new project will have on the tourist
industry will all be taken into account.
Licences are valid for 15 years and are renewable. The operator will also be
responsible for offering complementary services such as a bar, restaurant, and
other entertainment facilities. The main game room must have a minimum capacity
for 500 people, with a minimum area of 750 square meters.
