The first phase of Fiji’s casino project is to get under way this month, the company behind the scheme has confirmed.

According to local media, One Hundred Sands managing director Larry Claunch revealed that $400m in financing had already been raised for the project in just six months.

Construction work will begin shortly, he said.

The resort, which will feature a 500-slot, 57-table casino, is due scheduled to open by October next year.

It will be the country’s first casino.