GMB - How has the resort sector seen the
development of the gaming legalization in Brazil? Do you think the country will
have the law soon?
Luigi Rotunno - We have the feeling that the project is a bit slow. Probably,
due to political issues that at the moment focus on priority other legislation
projects, such as Social Security reforms and labor laws.
In a first conversation we had at the
Brazilian Gaming Congress, at the end of last year, the ABR had some doubts
about the installation of casinos in resorts. Have these doubts been addressed?
It still remains the question of the relationship between resorts and
casinos, especially for large projects. I believe that we must strike a balance
between these two distinct worlds and the identity of Brazil. The practice will
clarify these doubts. Now, we need to move on to the next stage and build closer
relationships with casinos.
The Ministry of Tourism contemplates the
liberation of casinos as one of the measures to improve the market in the
country. Can the ministry's interest help to speed up the process of regulating
games?
Yes, no doubt. They should even raise the flag of this project as a
priority.
Among the legalization projects of the gaming
activity underway in Congress, which points are most interesting and which
worries entrepreneurs who intend to have casinos in their resorts?
The most ambiguous questions are the distribution of resorts in the states
and the minimum number of apartments a resort should have. Entrepreneurial
projects do not combine with regulations of this type, and some times may make comanies
to give up investment. The market must be regulated. If an investor wants to
open ten casinos at a destination, it is up to him to negotiate with the local
authorities. There should be no obstacles. We are in favor of greater
flexibility in this regard.
What is ABR's position regarding the
interest of international investors in the country, especially for the resort
market? Will this investment bring new competitors or more opportunities for
partnerships?
Yes, no doubt this new market will attract investors. Casinos need resorts
that are designed for this type of activity. Currently, Brazil does not have a
high number of establishments that can easily adapt.
What is ABR's projection for casinos in
resorts in Brazil after the approval of gaming legalization? In how long could
we have a consolidated market and have good results?
Several associated resorts are already ready to host casinos. With the
liberation of the law, in a few months we could have active casinos. It can be
a very quick process.
Source: GMB Exclusive
