A statement from the Minister of Tourism, Celso Sabino, could give a new direction to the approval of the Bill for the legalization of gaming in Brazil. According to him, Jim Allen, global CEO of the Hard Rock hotel chain, is closely following the progress of the PL that could allow casinos and bingos in Brazil.
The Senate’s Constitution and Justice Committee (CCJ) is expected to put the proposal to a vote this Wednesday (12). “He’s just waiting for this project [to be approved] to decide where to build something here,” revealed the minister.
Thus, despite resistance from the evangelical bench, senator Irajá (PSD-TO) has already presented a report in favor of releasing the casinos. The project, already approved in the Chamber, awaits a vote in the Senate.
Legalization of casinos can bring economic benefits
Sabino, together with vice-president Geraldo Alckmin, who is also minister of Development, Industry, Commerce and Services, firmly support the measure.
The Hard Rock chain, owner of several casino units in the United States, is facing difficulties in establishing itself in Brazil through partnerships.
A megaproject involving eight chain hotels failed after delays in construction and investigations by the Federal Police involving Venture Capital Participações e Investimentos (VCI), the group’s then partner in the country.
Currently, there are only three units under construction: Fortaleza (CE), Gramado (RS) and Sertanópolis (PR). According to Celso Sabino, if Congress decides to release the casinos, Jim Allen would be willing to build other units in Brazil managed by the headquarters itself.
“The project of resorts integrated with casinos, without a doubt, will provide even greater interest among large chains.”
The legalization of casinos, and also other games that allow betting, can bring several economic benefits to the country. In other words, casinos can primarily generate direct jobs in construction, contributing to local economic growth where they will be installed and increasing national tourism.
Furthermore, another positive point is the increase in government revenue, as there would already be tax collection on the revenue from these establishments. Then, the money could be reinvested in areas such as education, health and infrastructure.
Therefore, the legalization of gaming can boost the Brazilian economy, opening new markets within the country and attracting foreign investment.
