A third casino operation has gained approval under the new casino regulations which shut down Nepal casinos last year. Goa Coastal Resorts, owners and operators of the Pride Group of Casinos and Hotels in India will form a joint venture with Nepal-based Entertainment and Recreational Pvt Ltd to open a casino in the Hyatt Hotel in Kathmandu. The Goa company will control 85% of the venture with the local company controlling 15%.

According to a report in asiagamblingbrief.com the director general of the tourism department, Tulasi Gautam, states that although the company has registered with the Department of Industry, it still needs to apply for a tourism permit. The Director indicated that “After evaluating the company’s application, we will issue the operating permit.” Reports indicate the casino could open around May 1.

In early February this year Casino Mahjong opened in the Soaltee Crown Plaza in Kathmandu. Around the same time, Hong Kong-based Silver Heritage opened the Millionaire’s Club and Casino at Shangri La Hotel in Kathmandu. Several other four and five star hotels in the city also seem ready to comply with the new regulations and re-open their casinos or open new brands with foreign capital partners.