Since the 4 August 2005 deadline for applications to develop casino complexes in Chile’s regions, there have been setbacks to the process of granting the 17 new casino licences authorised by law. Initially there were 48 potential investing groups who submitted project plans for the licensing body (SJC) to consider. A court case has delayed selection in three regions, but this is not the only setback to the licences being granted.

The Chilean Casino Law states that there must be no more than three casinos in any one region - there are thirteen administrative regions in the country - and that there must be a minimum of 70 kilometres between each casino. No casinos are allowed in the region of Santiago. There are already seven cities with casinos in Chile, which limits the number of new casinos possible in those regions. The distance restriction will also necessitate some of the applications being ruled out.

The prequalification and evaluation of the submitted proposals is required by law to be completed by 1 June 2006. The prequalification stage should be completed by 15 March, except in the three regions where Thunderbird Resorts is waiting for the courts to rule on its case against the SJC and the process is stalled. Even when the proceedings are back on track, it may be impossible to grant all 17 casino licences as the law stands. Many local authorities, and the people living in areas in need of the investment, jobs and tourism boost that a casino complex would bring, will be disappointed. (E-02.20.06)

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