Macao is planning to set up an e-platform for non-local applicants to apply via an employee recruitment programme to work in the city as qualified staff in an effort to lessen the local skills shortage.
Following a closed-door meeting of the legislature’s 3rd Standing Committee, which is reviewing the concerned government-initiated bill, chairman Vong Hin Fai said that a working group under the Talents Development Committee will be responsible for the initial review and compilation of the first round of shortlisting applicants.
He quoted government officials as saying that future entities responsible for the approval process will include the Macao Public Security Forces, Talents Development Committee, and a proposed assessment committee to identify qualified applicants, both of which will be chaired by the chief executive.
Vong added that if the applicants are not satisfied with their results they can directly lodge a judicial appeal, to avoid delaying the approval process due to administrative appeals.
Vong added that the applicants are allowed to apply for more than one category at a time. There are three categories of qualified human resources – internationally recognised top-quality personnel, highly qualified personnel and senior professionals. Those accepted for employment in Macao are able to apply for a residency permit and receive tax benefits.
Vong noted that the definition of Macao’s key industries proposed in the bill would be dynamically adjusted and therefore not be specified in the bill, but would be determined in conjunction with the city’s five-year plan and its economic development.
He underlined that the current key industries in Macao refer to big health, modern finance, high technology and culture and sports, as well as its established industries such as gaming, MICE and tourism, The Macau Daily Post reported.
