The ground breaking ceremony for Fiji’s first ever casino heralds in a new era for tourism.

The ceremony was completed yesterday afternoon in Denarau and the project is expected to finish by September 2013.

Developers One hundred Sands will build one hundred and sixty rooms, conference centre and a casino, with further upgrades later.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has assured the casino will operate under strict guidelines.

“One Hundred Sands brings professionalism and the highest standards. Our 1st casino will be based on sound legal framework that will ensure strict standards, transparency, professionalism and adherence to International best practices."

The project is worth $290m and will create 250 jobs with an additional 600 construction jobs.