According to a Singapore government minister, the city-state is likely to decide in December which of the three bidding groups will be awarded a license to build Singapore’s second casino on the Sentosa Island. The three competing groups are: Genting, Eighth Wonder and Kerzner.

“Whichever one we choose, Singapore will be the better for it. I believe the decision will be likely ready somewhere around early December or so, before Christmas definitely,” National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan told the press.

Singapore’s government has required that the Sentosa Casino have family attractions in order to attract regional tourists and enhance its service sector. The three bidding companies have submitted projects worth up to US$3.5 billion.

The Sentosa Casino is expected to open in 2010.