Associate Billy Choi released but may not leave Macao; police point to strong evidence linking pair to organised crime, illegal gambling and money laundering.
Business
Healthy visitor arrival numbers key to revitalising the city’s economy; government revenue projected as high as MOP 65.9 billion.
Cancelled new year banquets, few mainland visitors and rising costs likely to compel restaurants to change business model, says Andrew Chan Chak Mo.
Overall ‘tolerance’ levels continue to fall, as does air quality, but toilets are cleaner. Gaming Research Association gives no indication that Covid-19 is affecting conditions.
Grave concerns over fate of numerous employees at city’s 18 satellite casinos, whose future is in doubt; draft passed to standing committee for detailed inspection.
Report concludes Macao needs to build a stronger economy with new growth engines through economic diversification.
Higher costs of transport and services countered by cheaper prices for recreation, culture and communications, DSEC reports.
Table games, slots and other games of chance generated MOP 34.7 billion in 2021, compared to VIP baccarat’s MOP 28.4 billion.
Junket operations curtailed, government officials will inspect every three years, and threat to national security can lead to licence being cancelled.