World Poker Tour In China

Mr. Hu Jianguo, Director General of CLSAC said, "We look forward to a long-term partnership with the WPT, expanding this unique Sport and showcasing the wisdom and teamwork skills of the Chinese people to the world."

World Poker Tour will be televising poker and arranging live tournaments of the local variant Traktor, or Tuo La Ji, instead of Texas Hold'em. Even though it is officially classified as a sport, poker is illegal in main land China. No matter what the legal escape particulars of the tournament play, the tour will launch in Beijing this month.

A number of online providers have already fallen foul of the prohibition of internet gaming, and some fear that this deal may ultimately cause problems for World Poker Tour enterprises. The five-year television deal, signed with Macau Cable and Media Corp, is nonetheless a massive achievement. The first offering will see the Singapore-based company airing the first two WPT seasons.
The CEO of World Poker Tour Enterprises spoke about the deal:

"World Poker Tour is honored to be the marketing partner chosen by the CLSAC for the China National Traktor Poker Tour. Poker, especially Tuo La Ji Poker, requires a great amount of skill and passion, both key ingredients in creating dynamic and engaging sports television."

It is promising to pay attention to the expansion into China with the potential growth of over 500 thousand 19 and older potential poker players, this may be the games largest growth opportunities.