The Government of Goa has taken the decision to issue three new licences for offshore casinos but to limit the total operations to five. The Caravella has been operating for several years and a second offshore casino has already been granted a licence. The decision to licence three further offshore operations followed a Cabinet meeting yesterday.

In May Leelaventure Ltd said it would launch the second floating casino in Goa, on a catamaran acquired by the company. The boat will be moored the required distance out to sea to comply with the law. The first casino boat off Goa, the Caravela, is operated by Casinos Austria International and Advani Pleasure Cruise Company. The Goa Government will increase the licence renewal fee.

Last October local politicians said that ten more floating casinos would be allowed off the coast of Goa. The tiny former Portuguese colony is the only state in India to allow casinos. Yesterday’s Cabinet meeting has now limited to five the number of offshore operations. Gambling is still largely an unacceptable activity in India although Goa, much as Macau, was influenced by the Portuguese culture. (E-12.14.06)

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