Secretary for Economy and Finance Lei Wai Nong told reporters on Wednesday that the government has already spent MOP 10 billion (US$1.26 billion) on alleviating residents’ burden of COVID-19.
“During the first phase of the consumption subsidy smart card, [the government] observed that restaurants and businesses did not increase their prices for their products. Instead, most shops provided discounts. This has proven that market demand is low,” Lei said.
Lei also said that residents should spend the [next] MOP 5,000 wisely, compare prices before purchasing and continue to support local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Lei highlighted that in the first phase, Macau Pass did not collect any transaction or handling fees from the government and local outlets. In the second phase of the smartcard, which starts on Saturday, Macau Pass will collect fees.
Lei stressed that the transaction fee is between businesses and Macau Pass, adding that the fee should not be transferred to consumers. He also said that if anyone encounters any problems concerning additional charges they should report them to the Economic Services Bureau (DSE).
(The Macau Post Daily/Macau News)
PHOTO © Exmoo
