Representatives from the Macau gaming industry have raised concerns regarding the possible shutdowns of satellite casinos, citing their potential impact on local employment.
This issue arises in light of Macau’s new gaming law, which mandates that satellite venues must transition to a management company within three years, with the deadline set for the end of 2025.
Under the current framework, management companies will not be entitled to share in gaming revenues; instead, they will only receive a management fee from the concessionaire.
In this context, concessionaires may evaluate the costs associated with maintaining satellite casinos, considering the return on investment (ROI), which may eventually lead them to decide to cease the operation of some satellite casinos.
In 2022, seven satellite casinos ceased operations in Macau, a decision made before the Legislative Assembly approved of the new gaming law bill.
On September 19th, the Chief Executive candidate Sam Hou Fai’s campaign office met with a delegation from the Macao Gaming Industry Employees Home and the Macao Gaming Practitioners Volunteers Association. The industry representatives shared insights on the post-pandemic recovery of the gaming sector and the implications of the new law.
According to the press release, during the meeting, the representatives emphasized the crucial role that satellite casinos play in employing thousands of local workers.
The representatives called for the protection of the employment rights of gaming workers and highlighted that providing paid training is vital for the industry’s sustainable development. They urged that employees receive adequate support to adapt to the changing landscape.
The challenges faced by middle-aged and older workers were also significant concerns. The representatives suggested the need for targeted employment protection measures for this demographic.
Additionally, the necessity to enhance responsible gaming measures was underscored, promoting healthy growth in the industry while ensuring the physical and mental well-being of employees.
Sam Hou Fai’s campaign office expressed gratitude for the valuable insights shared by the representatives, committing to continue gathering feedback from various sectors of society to enrich and refine their policy platform.