Macau’s Chief Executive candidate vows gaming industry will not shrink during his term

September 30, 2024 Macau Industry Updates

As Macau gears up for its upcoming Chief Executive election on October 13, 2024, Sam Hou Fai, the only candidate, has laid out a comprehensive vision for the city’s gaming industry. During his September 28 presentation to the Electoral Affairs Commission and the media, Sam emphasized the importance of a regulated and responsible approach to gaming.

According to an Inside Asian Gaming article, Sam was quoted as saying that under his leadership, the gaming industry “will not shrink or be shut down.”

Macau’s gaming sector has faced criticism in the past for its rapid and often unregulated expansion. In his previous statements, Hou described this unchecked growth as “barbaric.” However, his recent tone reflects a more measured approach. He asserted that the gaming industry remains vital to Macau’s economy and that a healthy development is crucial to avoid far-reaching consequences for the city.

“The gaming industry is Macau’s primary industry,” Sam remarked. “If it does not develop healthily, it will have far-reaching consequences.” He reiterated that the new government would enforce the latest gaming laws strictly to ensure that the six licensed concessionaires operate within a framework that promotes orderly and responsible growth.

Macau’s Chief Executive candidate emphasized his commitment to enhancing the city’s reputation as a premier global destination. He suggested that one effective strategy could involve collaborating with the six gaming operators to set up tourism offices in regions like Europe, South America, and Asia. This initiative would support the “tourism promotion” clause included in their existing 10-year concessions.

In addition to regulating the gaming sector, Sam highlighted the need for diversification. He mentioned the necessity of monitoring the concessionaires’ non-gaming investments, which amount to MOP$130 billion. This oversight is crucial to promoting a more balanced economic environment in Macau. “We will require and supervise the concessionaires to monitor their investments in accordance with contractual requirements,” he said.

When questioned about employment practices within the gaming sector, Hou made it clear that he would not consider importing foreign workers as dealers. Currently, around 23,000 dealers are employed in Macau, and their jobs support numerous local families. He emphasized that maintaining these jobs is essential for the social stability of the region.

He believes that casino workers should to be properly equipped for career changes. “We have to consider that some dealers of gambling companies may want to leave or be asked to leave due to various reasons,” he said. “What should they do after that? I think the government must take care of these employees in the future and provide appropriate vocational training.”

In his presentation, Sam outlined five major policy ideas aimed at transforming governance in Macau. These include enhancing public governance capabilities, diversifying the economy, integrating with national development, improving educational and scientific institutions, and protecting the livelihoods of residents.

Furthermore, he articulated four visions for Macau’s future: a “Rule of Law Macau,” a “Vibrant Macau,” a “Cultural Macau,” and a “Happy Macau.” These aspirations reflect his commitment to not only bolster the gaming industry but also to enrich the overall quality of life for residents.

In light of concerns about illegal activities linked to gaming, Sam pledged to combat such issues and promote responsible gaming practices. He acknowledged that while gaming contributes significantly to Macau’s economy, it also poses challenges, particularly for youth and local communities. “Our goal is to prevent and combat illegal activities while exploring non-gaming elements that contribute to Macau’s economic diversification,” he stated.

This focus on responsible gaming aligns with broader calls from Chinese authorities for economic diversification in Macau. The city’s heavy reliance on gaming has created an imbalance that necessitates urgent attention. As part of his vision, Sam aims to integrate intelligent and digital management into the gaming sector, ensuring that it evolves in a manner that complies with legal standards and promotes positive outcomes.

Sam Hou Fai’s candidacy marks a pivotal moment for Macau as it navigates the complex relationship between gaming and broader economic health. His approach seeks to strike a balance between fostering the gaming industry and addressing the challenges it presents. With the election just around the corner, the public will be closely watching to see how Sam’s policies will shape the future of Macau.