The Government has issued two expressions of interest in international journals for a 10-year concession of two casinos, one in Malta and the other in Gozo.
Parliamentary Secretary for Economic Growth Edward Zammit Lewis said the Government wanted to receive proposals that include casinos set in much larger projects, such as hotels or shopping malls.
The casino industry, which has been present in Malta since 1964, contributed €10 million in taxes in 2008 and €13.5 million last year.
It currently employs 1,000 part- and full-timers.
€13.5 million– the contribution of taxes from the casino industry in 2012
The expression of interest phase closes on July 1, after which a team of experts will shortlist a companies for Malta and Gozo. Discarded bidders will have no right for appeal.
Professionals from the Lotteries and Gaming Authority will be answering queries and clarifications between June 10 and 21.
Dr Zammit Lewis said he was confident interest would be shown in the calls as the Government had already gauged interest from the private sector.
Regarding the Gozo casino, Dr Zammit Lewis said the Government was committed to creating investment on the island and, in turn, creating more employment opportunities for Gozitans.
This project was one a series to boost the economy in Gozo such as the idea for a cruise liner terminal.
Asked about the situation regarding the Casino Di Venezia, Dr Zammit Lewis said the casino’s licence was still suspended and that the Government was still evaluating whether there are any private investors willing to take it over.
The casino recently closed down and made all its employees redundant after its licence was suspended by the Lotteries and Gaming Authority over breaches, which were never made public.