All six current Macau operators have detailed applications for one of the autonomous region’s fresh gaming concessions, with Inside Asian Gaming also confirming that a seventh party entered the fray.
Wynn Macau was the first to signal its application for one of six available ten year concessions, followed by the remaining five current holders of MGM China, SJM Holdings, Las Vegas Sands, Melco Resorts and Entertainment and Galaxy Entertainment.
However, local media report that in the closing hours before the Macao SAR Government ended the application process, a group named GMM, which is linked to Genting Group Chair and CEO Lim Kok Thay, also threw its name into the hat.
The awarding of a new 10-year gaming concession contract would permit the operation of games of chance or other games in casinos in Macau, commencing on January, 1 2023.
After submitting its proposal, Lawrence Ho, Chair and CEO of Melco, commented, “I would like to thank the Macau government for this opportunity.
“Our proposal reinforces our commitment to Macau and the further diversification of its economy. We look forward to playing a leadership role in partnering with the Macau government to execute on the government’s vision.”
Elsewhere, LVS elaborated what it called an “unprecedented level of investment,” specifically in non-gaming tourism amenities and attractions, as well as long-term plans to further Macau’s appeal as an international tourist hotspot, in voicing confidence of receiving a permit.
“No one has been a bigger believer in Macao’s long-term success as a leisure and business tourist destination than we have,” explained Robert Goldstein, LVS and Sands China Chair and CEO.
“Investments in our world-class assets, our team members and the local community are a testament to our overall commitment to Macao and this tender submission reiterates our longstanding strategy of continuous investment in Macao.
“On behalf of our 25,000 team members in Macao, senior management, our boards of directors and the Adelson family, we are honoured to have submitted our application and look forward to continuing the wonderful partnership we have had with the people of Macao for the last two decades.”
Adding: “Our goals have always been aligned with the government when it comes to developing the scale of amenities Macao needed to become a must-see international tourism destination.
“We made unmatched commitments to bringing world-class shopping and dining and quickly became the market leader in MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions) and live entertainment.
“Macao is still in the early stages of establishing itself as an international tourism destination and we believe we can continue to meaningfully contribute to that effort by expanding those important drivers of tourism.”
