Despite Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party voting against legalizing casinos on the nation’s outlying islands, the bill to repeal the ban on gambling has been passed following its third and final reading in the legislature. The DPP said that the government was pushing through the amendment to the law even though there was no clear public consensus and casinos would not improve local economies or benefit local residents.

Gambling will now be permitted on the islands of Penghu, Matsu and Kinmen but the number of licences to be granted is not yet known. Before any casino development can go ahead the local governments must, by law, hold referendums. Gambling remains illegal on the main island. The bill must now be signed into law by President Ma Ying-jeou, who has been vocal in his support for casino legislation.

Isle of Man based AMZ Holdings PLC, a company with a casino project in Penghu since 1998, declared that it was delighted with the decision of the Legislature. The company stated: “The bill legalizes gaming through an amendment to the Offshore Islands Act, and the recent Council for Economic Planning and Development recommendations effectively earmark casino resort developments for Penghu.”

According to the Company, it spent a considerable period of time assembling land in Penghu, and the Directors believe that it is the largest private owner of property on the island. The company’s landholdings exceed the initial indications for the minimum land requirement required for the successful application of a gaming licence, and the company’s property is fully approved for the commencement of development of a resort.

Michael Treanor, CEO of AMZ said: “We are very excited about the prospect of casino/resort development on Penghu. Taiwan is one of the most attractive markets for gaming in South East Asia and a key location for any gaming resort operator. In addition, this is a great day for Taiwan and Penghu in that it will provide a strong catalyst for economic growth, will facilitate the development of Penghu as a prime tourist destination, and will help attract foreign investment to Taiwan.” (E-01.12.09)

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