Russian Casino Closes, Along with Borders

Summit Ascent Holdings, operator of the Tigre de Cristal casino resort (l.) in Russia’s Primorye section, suspended gaming last week on news that the government would close its borders to stop the Covid-19 virus.

Russian Casino Closes, Along with Borders

Summit Ascent Holdings, which runs the sole operational casino resort in Russia’s Primorye gaming zone, temporarily shut down its gaming enterprise last week after the government closed its borders.

Until further notice, Tigre de Cristal will offer only limited hotel services.

In a statement, Summit Ascent said, “The aim of the temporary suspension is to prevent crowds gathering during the pandemic. The group fully supports President Vladimir Putin and the Russian government’s measures to combat Covid-19, as the health and safety of our guests and our team members are of paramount importance.”

The closure came just a week after Summit Ascent announced it would open new facilities at Tigre de Cristal, including a Suncity VIP room, 30 hotel rooms, a private club and more dining options. The Suncity Group holds a 25 percent stake in Summit Ascent.

Suncity Chairman Alvin Chau said Tigre de Cristal has been “rapidly making alternations and improvements to attract and retain our discerning clientele,” and added that the company anticipates “a quick rebound” once the pandemic subsides.