The effort by Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat to provide financial relief for land-based casino operators has been answered with an almost symbolic counter-measure by the municipal corporation of the city of Panaji.

Kamat, who is also minister of finance for the state, recently lowered the entrance fee to casinos from INR2,000-about $45-to INR500, reports news agency IANS. Several months ago the entrance fee was raised from INR200 over alleged concerns about young people gambling.

Soon after the announced reduction, the Panaji city leaders revealed their new budget, which includes an increase in the annual trade tax for Goa's casino ships, from the current INR7,150 to INR50,000.

"They should be able to pay up at least so much," said Panaji Mayor Carolina Po, referring to the additional $960 casino ships will owe the city each year. "They are parked off Panaji and their offices are located on the banks of the city."

There are over a dozen electronic, land-based casinos operating in five-star hotels in the state of Goa and six licensed casino ships, with table games as well as slots, based in Panaji and operating on the Mandovi River. There has been a strong push against gambling from the opposition political party since before state elections a year ago.

Kamat has said that his government is working on creating a process that will result in an official casino gaming act and regulations.

By GGB Staff

Staff writers for Global Gaming Business magazine. Las Vegas, Nevada.