GMB - What is your position regarding the legalization of casinos in Brazil? And what about the rest of gaming modalities?
Borella - I am very much in favor of legalizing casinos. I am also in favor of regulating bingo games and increasing the betting possibilities. Brazil only has to gain from legalization. We must admit that the activity already exists in our country, but it is in the hands of offenders who do not pay taxes. Legalization would generate more resources for public coffers, which could be employed in needed sectors, more jobs and more income for the gaucho (as are known the locals) population.
Do you believe that casinos could benefit tourism in your state?
I believe it would attract a lot more tourists. The people from Rio Grande do Sul travel a lot to play in nearby countries or in Las Vegas. If there were casinos in RS, gauchos would not have to travel to play; they would do tourism in their own state and spend here. I also believe we would receive more tourists from other states and countries.
Are you in favor of only resort casinos or do you think there should be physical casinos independent of the big hotel chains?
I believe there may be independent casinos. But I think in major hotel and resort chains it would be more attractive. For example, in Montevideo I went to an event in a hotel that has three different casinos. I saw absurd turnover there, both at casinos and at guests. It was a 20-story hotel with full casino occupancy. That's why I believe the association is very good. But I think it's possible that they exist alone too.
What cities could host casinos in RS?
Several cities of Serra Gaucha already have structure to house casinos. With investments and adjustments, Greater Porto Alegre could also benefit, as well as cities near the borders.
Is your position on casinos shared with the governor? Have you been discussing and analyzing this theme together?
I haven't had a chance to talk to the governor about it yet, but I intend to do so soon.
Do you know the position of most of your fellow tourism secretaries from other states on the subject of casinos in Brazil?
I believe most are favorable as casinos would bring more tourists to the states. In the last forum of secretaries, we discussed the issue and I noticed that the vast majority support legalization.
Have you considered traveling to Las Vegas or some other city to analyze the economic benefits of casinos for the state?
I have visited several casinos in cities such as Rivera (Uruguay), Ciudad del Este (Paraguay) and Las Vegas to do market research and consider bringing them to RS. I am currently on a business trip through five South American countries to address this and other matters of state interest. We are making very good contacts here.
Have you been following what happens in the Chambers of Deputies and Senators with the gambling legalization laws? Do you believe this year there will be news?
I have been following, but I believe that something very substantial will not come out this year. By that I mean I don't think there will be approval now. Perhaps discussions and debates begin this year and will be taken to one of the Houses for a first consideration. But I'm sure the approval doesn't come out this year. But I also do not doubt that by the middle of next year it will be published and sanctioned.
Source: Exclusive Games Magazine Brasil
