ANOTHER step to make Fiji's first casino a reality was taken yesterday with the groundbreaking ceremony at Denarau Island.
The ceremony marks the first stage of the $290million casino built by US company One Hundred Sands Limited.
Chief guest Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama said this was another step to diversifying Fiji's offering to our international visitors.
"The One Hundred Sands brings with it professionalism and high standards. It is a USA investment together with American shareholding.
"This partnership and collaboration with Fiji is unique. It appears the USA is partnering with us in groundbreaking areas," said Commodore Bainimarama.
OHSL chairman Larry Claunch said they were excited with the new venture and were looking forward to begin construction.
Mr Claunch said the project was expected to generate 900 jobs during the construction phase and 700 jobs once the casino and hotel and convention centre were operational. The casino is expected to be completed by September, 2013.