Gaming operators to publish commissioned report on smoking ban

Grant Bowie

The complete KPMG report on the impacts of a full smoking ban for gaming operators will be accessible to the public in the future, according to MGM China’s CEO and executive director, Grant Bowie.
The findings of the report, commissioned by the six gaming operators earlier this year, were presented to the Legislative Assembly’s subcommittee last week.
Grant Bowie yesterday told the media while at a function that the full report would be available to the public after a review by the authorities. However, gaming operators have already presented its main conclusion, which recommends the retention of smoking lounges.
“The smoking lounges are probably the best option in terms of finding the compromise and protecting our staff, while at the same time giving our customers a choice,” stated Bowie, citing the report.
He also added that “more clarity” on the group’s USD3 billion Cotai property – slated for opening at the end of next year – would come alongside the ongoing talks with the government.
Discussions revolve around the group’s expectation of 500 gaming tables at the Cotai property. Bowie indicated that this would go a long way to meet an entertainment quota in the complex, which seeks to introduce activities other than gaming.
“When we do open the property, we’ll certainly be bringing some new, different and unique opportunities… we’re confident that we will meet the expectations of the government which will allow them to support us with tables,” he said.
Convinced that the VIP market would recover in the future, MGM’s China CEO also suggested that the territory should brace itself for mass-­market growth.