(Macao - 26 May 2007) The Chief Executive, Mr Edmund Ho Hau Wah said today a revision in the Individual Visit Scheme would promote quality enhancement in Macao's tourism industry. Mr Ho said it was normal and rational to review and revise the Scheme after it has been implemented for some time."It would not come to a stop and would not reverse the growth in Macao's tourism industry, though a slight adjustment is expected. "It is not likely to pose any negative effect on Macao¡¦s tourism industry and the SAR's revenue," he said. Mr Ho said the new arrangement would contribute to a more rational development in Macao¡¦s tourism and related industries, promoting the development in quality instead of mere quantity, as continued rapid growth would also pose stresses on infrastructures and related industries. "The Mainland will continue to support Macao¡¦s development in all aspects including the healthy growth in tourism industry." Mr Ho also said Macao would continue to support the Central Government’s ban on gambling by Mainland officials. The Individual Visit scheme was introduced in 2003, under which residents for a number of Guangdong cities could visit Macao on their own instead of in group tours. The scheme was then extended to residents of other provinces. On his visit to Guizhou, Mr Ho said it fostered a better understanding of the province's vast natural resources and its great potential in the tourism industry. Mr Ho said Guizhou had entered a new phase of development and many new industries were emerging, creating many business opportunities for Macao entrepreneurs. He said the SAR Government would continue to promote trade and tourism co-operation between Macao and Guizhou as well as encouraging establishments of Macao enterprises in Guizhou.
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