Numerous reports surfaced over the weekend that state NagaCorp Ltd. is still in the running for a casino license in Cyprus. It was announced that NagaCorp, the casino operator that owns NagaWorld in Cambodia, was one of two companies left in the bidding process after Bloomberry Resorts Corp. announced they had removed their bid for the gaming license.
There is one license up for grabs in Cyprus that will include the construction of a hotel as well as a casino resort. Back in March, the government of Cyprus announced three candidates had shown interest in being the operator of the casino that would be the first gaming venue in the area. The third interested party is a consortium consisting of Melco International Development, Seminole HR Holdings LLC (Hard Rock Casinos) and Cyprus Phasouri (Zakaki) Ltd.
Originally, the three interested parties had until the 5th of July to submit a final bid for the license. However, this deadline was extended to the 5th of October. The decision to extend the deadline was a sore spot with the consortium of Melco/Seminole HR as they were ready with their bid.
Earlier reports had suggested that NagaCorp was out of the running as the company had not been able to secure a land deal where the casino would be located. Officials from the company have not confirmed the latest reports that they are still in the running and local media had not provided information as to if the company has been able to find land for the casino.
Sources close to GGRAsia, have told the news outlet that NagaCorp will be submitting a final bid by the 5th of October. When asked by the news outlet if the final bid would be made, no comment was made by NagaCorp chairman, Tim McNally.