It is now well known terrestrial casinos are slowly decreasing because of its online counterparts, in countries like France and the United States for example. A Belgium company faces a major crisis: Brussels’ casino is said to be losing one million euros per month.

A tax cut request

Viage, the managing group of the casino, already invested 75 million euros since its opening and requested a tax cut to both the government and the city council. Indeed, with more than 1,000 direct jobs in a region where unemployment reaches 20%, the company has a relatively significant economic impact, especially as it generates 25 million euros in tax profit for the city. If the casino’s taxation is not reviewed, the group may be forced to close it down.

No tax relief planned

Recently, Jean-Luc Vanraes, Regional Finance Manager, announced the local government was not keen on lowering taxes imposed to the casino. While the reduction claimed by Viage group had been accepted, tax revenues would fall by one quarter since the company is the largest taxpayer in town. Jean-Luc Vanraes also declares gaming, the most taxed activity, to be still growing year over year, but points out side activies to lose money.