Macau-based casino and hotel operator Macau Legend Development Limited has officially began construction of its $290 million casino resort at in Cape Verde.

Macau Legend boss David Chow appeared at the groundbreaking ceremony of his new gaming resort on Monday, along with the Cape Verde’s Prime Minister, José Maria Neves.

“The project will represent a new chapter in the Cape Verde tourism sector,” Chow said, adding that it would also serve as an example of the abilities of the people of Macau in the business world.

Chow, during the announcement of the project in July, said that the company’s investment in Cape Verde is the first step to expansion in the international market to offset losses in Macau due to the Chinese government crackdown.