Secretary for Economy and Finance, Mr Leong Vai Tac, meets the press.
The Government expected gaming revenue would be better in this month than June, based on the patterns of the past and people’s travelling habits, said the Secretary for Economy and Finance, Mr Leong Vai Tac. According to recent released figure, gaming revenue recorded in June was 17.35 billion patacas, a 14.7 per cent drop from May instead of the estimated 25 per cent. The Government would consider imposing stricter financial measures if this month’s gaming revenue was less than 18.35 billion patacas, he told reporters on 2 July. Macao’s unemployment rate did not see a significant increase over the past few months, adding that so far there were 59 employees from eight VIP junkets had asked for assistance, he said. The Government would closely monitor the employment situation, especially in the gaming sector, during the period of consolidation. He said the Government would invest a part of its reserves in rewarding projects in Guangdong, such as infrastructure and others related to the people’s livelihood, as this is a more stable way to invest Macao’s reserves with adequate returns. In addition, Mr Leong said the adjustment on transit stay for Chinese passport holders would further advance Macao’s commercial and trade platform in the development of the country’s “One Belt and One Road” initiatives – the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. Beginning in July, holders of Chinese passports are allowed to stay in the city up to seven days before transiting to a third destination.