Casino News

Ho looks towards Taiwan's gaming market

2009-01-14 12:22:04

Melco Crown Entertainment chief Lawrence Ho has suggested that his gaming organisation would be interested in a move into Taiwan.

Following reports that Taiwan is to lift its ban on casinos, Mr Ho - the son of The King of Gambling Stanley Ho - told the AFP that Melco would definitely consider setting up in Taiwan, as long the global financial crisis and China do not get in the way.

"Subject to the credit market, we are very interested," said the Macau gaming boss.

However, he added that his company's "relationship with China is key" and that it would not make any moves that could potentially damage this.

China has been in a sovereignty dispute with Taiwan for decades.

Mr Ho stated that he expects Macau's gaming industry to recover this year and suggested that recent problems at Melco's Crown Macau resort are not indicative of what the future holds for his company.

Australia's Daily Telegraph recently reported that the venue cut staff wages at the start of December as it looked to reduce costs in light of sharp revenue falls.