Las Vegas Sands’ size and experience in resort management in the US meant that any party partnering with the operator had a higher chance of winning one of Macau’s original licences, a court heard.
Macau had been looking for partners to help it enrich its tourism offerings to help boost economic recovery.
“This did not mean the Commission completely prioritised LVS but any party involving LVS had advantages,” said Maria Nazaré Saias Portela, a member of the Macau Casino Gaming Commission at the time.
The court is hearing a case brought by Asian American Entertainment, which was LVS’ initial partner in applying for the licence. The two parties split and LVS went on to bid with Galaxy Entertainment.
Asian American claims breach of contract and is seeking as much as $12bn in damages.
Source: Asia Gaming Brief
