The Secretary for Economy and Finance, Mr Leong Vai Tac, speaks to reporters.
Casinos’ gross gaming revenues have been in positive territory for two consecutive months, namely in August and September, noted today the Secretary for Economy and Finance, Mr Leong Vai Tac. In September, casino gross gaming revenue totalled 18.396 billion patacas, representing a 7.4 year-on-year growth for that month. Speaking at the National Day reception hosted by the Government, Mr Leong said the Government was confident that casino gross gaming revenue in 2016 would reach the Government’s target of 200 billion patacas. Factors favouring the likelihood of such an outcome included: the positive performance in gaming revenue in September, a month that is commonly considered an off-peak period for inbound tourism to Macao; and the seasonal peak in tourism expected in October. August’s casino gross gaming revenue totalled 18.836 billion patacas, a 1.1 percent year-on-year growth. The August increase was probably due to the peak travel period in summer; the increase in the number and type of non-gaming offerings in the city; and the launch of more entertainment projects, Mr Leong said. The Government would closely monitor the possible challenges posed to Macao by the volatile environment in international markets, added Mr Leong. In addition, the Secretary also commented on the proposed revision of the Regulation on the Conditions of Entering, Staying and Gaming in Casinos, including a restriction on casino workers entering casinos during their leisure hours. The Government was collecting opinions from local associations and businesses, in order to optimise the regulation while protecting the rights of employees. Mr Leong said the Government was currently preparing the budget for the fiscal year 2017 and collecting data from public departments. In drawing up its budget, the Government would follow closely the principle of keeping expenditure within the limits of its revenues. The Government would additionally make sure all public funds were used properly.