Fiji grants first casino licence
The Fijian Government has granted the country’s first exclusive gaming licence to US-based One Hundred Sands Limited – the company developing a US$290 million luxury casino resort on Denarau Island.
The first phase of development will see 190 hotel rooms and three restaurants, with the second phase to add further accommodation, a nightclub, entertainment venues and a 1,500-seat convention centre.
The casino area will feature 500 slot machines and 54 table games.
“It is important with all new investment projects – both internal and international – that we protect the rights and interests of Fijians, and provide for the prosperity of our nation,†Fiji’s prime minister, Frank Bainimarama said.
The development is expected to create upwards of 800 jobs for local residents.
The groundbreaking for the gaming facilities, new convention centre and luxury hotel has been tentatively set for March 2012.
Meanwhile, well-travelled hotel executive Michael Meade has been appointed as acting CEO of Tourism Fiji.
An Australian national, Meade has held senior management and marketing roles in some of the world’s leading hospitality and aviation brands.
These include the InterContinental Hotels Group, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Southern Pacific Hotels Corporation, Rendezvous Hospitality Group, Jin Jiang Hotels China and British Airways.
Ian Jarrett
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