ANTIGUA SUN
The issue of income tax has seemingly taken a backseat as Internet
gaming companies await clarification on the United States' measure of
compliance with the World Trade Organisation's (WTO) landmark decision
on Internet gaming and cross border trading.
Spokesperson for the Antigua & Barbuda Offshore Gaming Association
Ronald Maginley told the SUN there were about four companies that had
gained licenses in other jurisdictions, "but continue to wait for
clarification with regard to the WTO decision."
These companies will be meeting with the Minister of Finance Dr. Errol
Cort tomorrow (Friday) to hear the minister's account of his
discussions with the US at the Geneva-based meeting last week.
It was reported that the US Ambassador to the WTO had stated at the
meeting before the WTO dispute settlement body that the US would comply
with the final ruling of the WTO Appellate Body.
However, the issue that concerns many is the measure of compliance or rather the US" interpretation of the WTO final ruling.
"If there is a dichotomy between our understanding and that of the US,
then we may need to go back to WTO and seek further clarification.
"If the US has adopted our interpretation of the decision, which is
full access to the US markets, then it is the victory that we were
expecting and Antigua & Barbuda can expect significant growth in
the Internet gaming sector," Maginley said.
Initial statements from the US clearly indicated that US trade
officials felt that they would only need to tweak some areas of
legislation, especially as it related to Internet gambling on horse
racing, in order to comply with the WTO ruling.
"The challenge has always been about moving quickly, being mindful that
the UK is already preparing regulations for the sector. If Antigua
& Barbuda is to benefit fully from the ruling then we must gain
access and leverage to provide a strategic advantage," he added.
