GMB - What are your expectations regarding the upcoming edition of the DR Gaming Summit to be held next November?
Oscar Chalas - Expectations are very good, we must have a gambling industry at or above the levels of competent countries with us in tourism. We must remember that we have a country where the main source of income is from tourism, and the gaming industry, mainly casinos (about 80%) are located in touristic areas of the country. These are key components of the tourist packages we offer the world.
In view of this, we see the great importance of DR Gaming Summit event taking place in our country once again, in order to keep us up to date with the latest innovations and trends of the gaming industry.
The gaming industry in the Dominican Republic is varied and widely regulated. With close to 60 casinos in operation, including resorts and urban casinos of different sizes, 1829 sportbooks authorized to also operate slot machines, over 30,000 lottery agencies along with 4 large lotto operations, and regulated online gaming with 4 active licenses, what kind of invitation could be made to Foreign Investors?
We have a large amount of untapped potential. Next year we hope to have a new regulatory framework for the gaming industry, we will be able to tell foreign investors, that the Dominican Republic is ideal for the development of a gambling industry and the most important, is legally secure.
Considering the importance of this Summit, which is comprised of a conference and exhibition, are there any plans to change or amend the legislation in any manner?
Yes, the Strengthening and Modernization of Casino and Gaming Project is already underway, and it will provide a new legal framework for the gaming industry. The DR Gaming Summit will be the perfect scenario to discuss about it.
Finally, we appreciate the support that the Ministry of Finance and your Casinos and Gaming Directorate is giving us, what message would you like to give to the worldwide gaming industry?
Regardless of the variety and strength of the gaming industry in the Dominican Republic, we still have great potential for further development. The worldwide gaming industry should have their eyes in our country. Its investments will be safe and have prospect achieving good results.
Source: GMB / DR Gaming Summit
