CI_Calendar_0708_complete.qxd 8/7/07 1:01 pm Page 24
ASIA By John Gomes, Managing Director IGT Asia
IGT Asia is continuing to closely monitor key developments in Laos, Guam, Myanmar and
of course Goa, India.
Of course, the Asian market is considerably larger than just Macau, though the former Macau may be maturing by each day, but there is clearly growth throughout the region
Portuguese colony grabs all the headlines. Many other territories in Asia have already which could ultimately make Asia the main market for many operators and manufacturers.
opened up to full casino operations and many emerging markets are soon to follow, as an
efficient route to taxes and income generation. Countries are encouraging their small gam-
bling industries to mature and develop, and with huge revenues to be made for most parties
concerned, there are plenty of companies waiting to help them realize their ambitions.
IGT Asia has a fascinating challenge with the daily operations covering so many coun-
tries and markets. Obviously, the focus in Asia remains in Macau with rapid development
requiring special attention. However, the two main Singapore projects will surely take up
some of the lime light in the next 24 months.
South Korea is a country IGT Asia is actively doing business in and together with our dis-
tributor we continue to successfully have a share of this market. Taiwan is similar for IGT
Asia, in that we successfully work with a local agent. It is a consistent market, and it's one
we actively support. There is a lot of talk of making a gaming 'island' in Taiwan, and there is
speculation on seeking investment from big companies to try and emulate Macau's growth.
The Philippines is another good market for IGT where we have a solid footprint. All the
casinos are controlled through the government body PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and
Gaming Corp).
In Malaysia, the largest operator is Genting, and IGT Asia is involved with them on the
systems side with 50 percent of the gaming floor, and we have a strong presence across
their floor with our product.
Singapore is a market for the future, with the potential of Genting Sentosa Island and the
Sands Marina Bay, both from systems and machine placement perspectives. Singapore also
has a club market which is basically a street market that in the past has been restrictive.
However, recent discussions are that this market may open up to casino-style machines.
Vietnam's casinos can only be operated within a five-star hotel. In comparison to
Cambodia, it's a world apart where Cambodia is basically an open market. Cambodia is
much more liberal and there are more operators in the market. However, the revenue in
Cambodia is not as strong as in Vietnam. Cambodia is still a market where there are many
opportunities for gaming as the market continues to develop. Further, as more serious play-
ers enter the market Cambodian operators must start looking more seriously at what equip-
ment they are using and how they plan to position themselves long-term. IGT Asia has huge
long term potential for the Cambodian market as that market continues to mature.
For a more efficient, profitable and
exciting gaming future. Learn more
about our full range of solutions at
www.octavianinternational.com
info@octavianonline.com
OctaSystems OctaGames OctaSupplies
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28