As the world racing industry and gaming markets have continued to grow, eight leading wagering operators have come together to develop the Asian-African Tote Association (AATA). The association aims to strengthen ties between the world's leading operators across Asia and Africa.
World Leading Wagering Operators
The new Asian-African Tote Association has been founded by eight of the leading wager operators across Asia and Africa. These include the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Tabcorp Holdings (Australia), Phumelela Gaming and Leisure, the New Zealand Racing Board, Racing and Wagering Western Australia, the Macau Jockey Club, the Singapore Turf Club and the Saigon Racing Club.
In addition, the Japan Racing Association and Korean Racing Authority have joined in the capacity of observer organizations.
Established in May 2014, the association has been operating for one month. At the first meeting of the association, Richard Cheung, executive director of customer service and marketing at Hong Kong Jockey Club, was elected President. Brendan Parnell, Chief Executive Officer of Tabcorp's media and business was elected Vice President.
Aims of AATA
Through the AATA stronger ties are expected to develop between leading wagering operators across Asia and Africa. These are constantly developing and growing gaming markets where greater collaboration is expected to improve the global industry as a whole.
The aims of the association include furthering members' common interests with focuses on technological advances, improving standards, regulating betting rules, sustainable funding for the racing industry, delivering responsible wagering services, reducing illegal operations and improving customer and marketing initiatives.
"The Asian-African Tote Association provides member organizations with the platform for stronger collaboration in our many areas of shared interest," stated Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, CEO of the Hong Kong Jockey Club.
The racing industry has grown and developed, becoming more global. It is at this time that leading operators have seen the need for a more collaboration within the worldwide industry and have recognized the contributions that operators can make.
David Attenborough, Managing Director and CEO of Tabcorp agreed with this assessment stating, "As racing and wagering becomes increasingly global, the Asian-African Tote Association will enable its members to progress the many opportunities we have."
Richard Cheung, President of the association added: "I will endeavor to encourage exchange of ideas among AATA members via the association as an open forum. The association aims to enhance wagering operators' capability to excel under a rapidly evolving landscape of competition, taxation and customer needs".