The belize gaming license

[bobby belize]

The belize license is just like that of Costa Rica. It's a DATA PROCESSING license. Meaning they can export data from belize. The data being pointspreads. The license has nothing to do with running a sportsbook or casino.

Data processing is a new and dynamic industry in Belize and is expected to show substantial growth in the future. The Government of Belize has developed incentive programs specifically designed to encourage the development of this industry. The Export Processing Zone (EPZ) Programme in particular was created as an attractive package to entice investors specifically in the area of data processing. With EPZ status, investors are given such benefits as full import and export duty exemptions and tax holidays. Belize also has the advantage of being equipped with a high percentage of skilled workers who are easily trained for the demands of data processing operations.

Investors interested in acquiring EPZ developer status must submit an application for an Export Processing Zone Developer's Certificate. Under EPZ developer status, investors are able to provide office space and support facilities to businesses involved in offshore data processing and other information technologies.

Business operations involved in information technologies include telemarketing, credit card data management, other offshore data processing, internet/telephone gaming, teleconferencing facilities and international hotel/travel reservations.

One of the first data processing companies to be registered in Belize under EPZ developer status is DataPro International Ltd. This company proposes to invest US $1.25M and obtain Foreign Exchange Earnings of approximately US $2.35M within the first five years of its operation.

[Blowfish]

And if they did offer a specific Internet gaming license, it would no doubt be as effective as that given in Antigua and Curacao--that hasn't stopped anyone from picking up and disappearing in the middle of the night. Putting your money in a sportsbook is the equivalent of putting your money in an offshore bank account or any account not insured by the FDIC--play at your own risk.

[LoboLoco]

Belize is much smaller than Costa Rica and has fewer resources. Their government is trying hard to bring in business to help the economy, maybe too hard. They need the revenue from the licenses so they probably arent too careful about who they give them to.

[Dragon]

That's the problem. These dinky places can't turn down the revenus. Antigua, Belize, Curacao, you think they're going to do anything to disrupt an industry that pumps so much money into their economy? All they care about is getting those licensing fees. Not to mention the employment for their people. The PLAYERS are at the bottom of the totem pole here and seem to get screwed everytime.

[Blowfish]

I don't think any entity, government or otherwise that offers a license is actually responsible for the financial well-being of the country. K-Mart no doubt had a business license, and are in Chapter 11; however, they are still ultimately responsible for themselves. The same should be true of the gaming industry. You either have insurance or you don't.