Interviews
This Is How CUOASEC Was Formed: Luis Gama Explains the Historic Union of Uruguay’s Casino Companies
(Montevideo, SoloAzar Exclusive ) — Luis Alberto Gama Hernández has taken on the role of Executive Secretary of the newly created Uruguayan Chamber of Entertainment Hall and Casino Operators and Administrators (CUOASEC). In this interview, he analyzes the reasons that led the country’s main casino companies to unite under a single chamber, details which operators will be part of it, and offers his perspective on the current state of the industry in Uruguay.
Luis Alberto Gama Hernández is the newly appointed Executive Secretary of the recently established Uruguayan Chamber of Entertainment Hall and Casino Operators and Administrators (CUOASEC). In the following lines, he explains all the details behind the creation of this new entity.
What does it mean for you to assume the role of Executive Secretary of the newly created CUOASEC, and what will be your immediate priorities?
It represents a great responsibility and, at the same time, a valuable recognition of my career within the industry. This appointment is a unique opportunity to actively contribute to the modernization of the regulatory framework, adapting legal provisions to the current landscape and the real needs of the sector. Immediate priorities will focus on promoting coordinated work that allows progress toward clearer, updated regulations that are consistent with present and future challenges. It is important to note that, for the first time, all companies have come together to create a unique space for sharing the sector’s problems and needs.
What motivated Uruguay’s main casino companies to join forces and create this new chamber? Which companies, among others, will be part of it?
Uruguay’s leading casino companies decided to unite and create this new chamber because they understood that they share virtually all of their concerns, challenges, and strategic needs. By joining forces and presenting general proposals collectively, they strengthen their capacity for dialogue, optimize their efforts, and ensure greater effectiveness in results. Among others, the most representative companies of the sector—committed to coordinated work and the pursuit of common solutions—will be part of this initiative. These include, among others: Codere (Maroñas, Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco), Enjoy Punta del Este, and Radisson Montevideo Victoria Plaza Hotel.
The Situation of Casinos in Uruguay
How would you describe the current situation of the casino sector in the country, and what urgent challenges does it face?
The current situation of the casino sector in Uruguay demands immediate attention in regulatory matters. It is urgent to work on updated legislation that truly aligns with today’s reality. There are gaming modalities that still lack regulation, and others that do have regulation but, in my view, require a thorough review. The priority is to devote all efforts to building a bill that strengthens the development of the activity and aligns it with the regional context, ensuring clear, modern, and sustainable rules for all stakeholders.
CUOASEC’s Plans
What can you share about the strategic agenda aimed at promoting the sector’s transformation?
The strategic agenda will focus on participating in all relevant spaces with openness and collaboration, clearly and thoroughly presenting the position of the companies that make up the Chamber, and making all their knowledge and experience available to whoever may require it. These companies have invested more than 600 million dollars in the country and generate approximately 20,000 quality jobs, both direct and indirect. Investment and employment of this magnitude must be considered key factors in any analysis and in the final decisions regarding the transformations the sector requires.
To conclude, what message would you like to convey to the authorities, the industry, and the public about this new stage?
The message is that the Chamber’s main objective is to contribute constructively, participate actively in discussions, and join forces so that all actors within the industry become stronger. All the Chamber’s capabilities will be available to enrich the debate, always prioritizing the public interest and the sustainable development of the sector.
