GMB - Brazil currently discusses two proposals, one in the Senate and another
in the Chamber, to regulate the gambling activity in the country. What
evaluation do you make of these discussions?
Toni Sando de Oliveira - This is a debate that has been going on for a long
time and needs a positive outcome for the country's economy. We look at both
the generation of employment and income, as well as the collection of taxes.
And from the tourism point of view, we consider it importante mainly due to the
new scenario that would be created for gaming, involving resorts, hotels and
also entertainment equipment, such as stadiums.
GMB - Our country is one of the few in
the world, among those who are part of the World Tourism Organization, that
does not have regulated gambling. How does this generate a negative aspect for
Brazil among almost 160 countries for not having this activity, known as a
driving force of tourism?
It shows that we have a new potential to be achieved. In addition, arriving
last sometimes has its advantages of getting ahead with what has the most
advanced in technology. Among other measures that have already been discussed
in the most diverse spheres, legalization of gaming should put Brazil on the
path of a mature destination and desired by domestic and foreign travelers.
Among other measures that impact the sector, we also have the release of visas
for strategic countries, theme park and cruise legislation, new shared economy
entrants, updating of the General Tourism Law and the transformation of
Embratur into an agency.
GMB - How is the SPCVB addressing this
issue in time of discussions to give information to the deputies and senators
explaining the importance of the activity for the increase of tourism in the
country?
The SPCVB, as well as Unedestinos (National Union of CVBs and Destination
Entities) is still in private dialogue with the public authorities and always
opens its doors so that the parliamentarians who lead the debate can expose their
arguments. We also invite the leaders of the private initiative so that they
can also collaborate with practical information of the sector. As an example,
we had several meetings with the Tourism Committee of the Chamber of Deputies
and with associations related to the topic.
GMB - Talking specifically of Sao Paulo,
how would the passage of a broad gambling law benefit the city?
It can generates formal Jobs and taxes for public coffers, giving the
government the chance to invest more in areas that are fundamental to society.
In São Paulo, in addition to instigating Paulista to explore more of the city
and enjoy what it offers best, it will encourage domestic tourism and that the
business visitor can extend his stay or even enjoy the night of São Paulo, with
another option of entertainment.
GMB - Would we be able to host one of
the future casinos to be opened in Brazil with the future regulation of the
sector? Is there any work of the SPCVB and the entire tourist trade to claim
one of the concessions in order to increase business tourism, the main feature
of the activity in our city?
The interior of São Paulo is the great place to receive the casinos, with
its top quality resorts. The SPCVB is a state entity and has a range of
associated cities, with resorts of different categories. Therefore, it also
strives to stimulate tourism by the cities of the State. To host events is our
specialty and for sure it is already in our radar the prospecting of events for
this segment.
GMB
- Even with no casinos, the bingos, that have already had a significant
participation as a leisure tool not only for residents but also for visitors,
may offer an alternative to attract visitors to the city and also to ensure
that visitors may stay longer in the city. Do yo agree?
Sure. Bingo is a regional attraction that several destinations have the
potential to take them back. So much for those who visit and can stay longer,
as well as the Paulistano himself, who, from time to time, has been
rediscovering the capital, seeking to explore the most diverse possibilities,
such as gastronomy, art, parties, carnival and now gaming.
GMB - Is the entity working to show the
benefits of the activity to parliamentarians?
Unedestinos, the SPCVB and the main leaders of the travel, tourism and
events trade, are open to dialogue and give the parliamentarians who lead the
debate to present their ideas and clarify doubts. Mainly being a measure that
will increase the economy of the country through resorts and hotels, which are
venues capable to receive casinos and bingos and that are one of the bases of
the productive chain of tourism, events and trips.
GMB - Do you believe Brazil will have a
law passed this year?
Our expectation is that the approval of laws and regulations of the
economic sectors of the tourism production chain, will be taken to the plenary
as soon as possible. We have no more time to lose. Brazil needs to accelerate
its economy and generate wealth for our destinies. The trade is optimistic and
eager to explore this new field that opens up, increasing the economy of
destinations, making them more attractive to residents and visitors.
Source: Exclusive GMB
