SINGAPORE: Response from foreign casino operators to take part in Singapore's proposed integrated resort has been strong.
At the end of Monday's deadline for the submission of concept plans for the project, at least 10 key players in the gaming industry have thrown in their hats into the ring.
Channel NewsAsia understands that one company that's interested in the integrated resort project has spent US$1m alone on its concept proposal.
The resort is expected to cost some S$1b-S$2b to develop.
But latecomer Eighth Wonder says it is setting aside as much as S$3b.
The company rushed to beat the noon deadline on Monday, with founder and chairman Mark Advent turning up at the Singapore Tourism Board at the last hour to make its submission.
Eighth Wonder - a Las Vegas-based company - is down at the table with other bigger operators like Harrah's Entertainment, Wynn Resorts, MGM Mirage.
Eighth Wonder's Mark Advent said: "I think there are a lot of terrific companies all over the world which are interested in building something meaningful in Singapore. I think the concepts that the government will be receiving will all be very good ones."
US companies aside, Australian big names like TabCorp and PBL are also in the game.
Malaysia's Genting is also reported to have submitted its proposal.
So have smaller players like the Hong Kong-based hotel and cruise ship operator, New Century Group.
It certainly looks like the competition will be intense.
The Singapore government will announce its decision on the resort after reviewing all the concept bids.
That's expected to take up to six weeks.
If the government finally decides to go ahead with the resort, there'll be another round of bidding before the licence is awarded. - CNA
Too attractive for Govt not to reject liao