Chinese President Xi Jinping said about the casino hub: “The rejuvenation of the nation is unstoppable, and the prospect of Macau’s development is promising."
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Macau on December 18, 2024 for a three-day visit, marking the 25th anniversary of the region’s handover to China. His visit is expected to spotlight Macau’s economic diversification efforts and its integration into China’s Greater Bay Area development plan.
Xi landed at Macau International Airport in the afternoon, where he was warmly welcomed by a lively crowd. Dozens of school children waving red and yellow flowers, as well as traditional lion dancers, greeted the Chinese leader. This is Xi’s first visit to Macau in five years.
Speaking to the assembled crowd, which included senior government officials and Macau Chief Executive Ho Iat-seng, Xi referred to Macau as the "jewel of the motherland."
“I have always been concerned about the development of this place and the well-being of all its residents,” Xi was quoted as saying in a report published by the Hiong Kong publication The Standard.
He added, “In the next few days, I will take a walk, have a look, and engage in extensive and in-depth exchanges with friends from all walks of life to discuss Macau's development plans.”
Xi pointed out that over the past 25 years, Macau's unique practice of “One Country, Two Systems” has gained “worldwide recognition for its success,” showcasing its “vibrant vitality and unique charm.”
He also expressed his expectations for Macau, stressing that “the rejuvenation of the nation is unstoppable, and the prospect of Macau’s development is promising...As long as we give full play to the institutional advantages of the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ principle, and have the courage to work hard and innovate, Macau will certainly create a better tomorrow.”
During his meeting with Chief Executive Ho, Xi praised Ho’s leadership during his five-year term, acknowledging the progress made under his administration. Xi expressed hope that Ho would continue to support the incoming Chief Executive and the new governing team in contributing to the region’s and the country’s development.
Macau, a former Portuguese colony, was handed over to China on December 20, 1999. Since then, the city has evolved into the world’s largest casino hub, outpacing Las Vegas. Its gaming sector, primarily driven by Chinese visitors, accounts for a significant 81% of government revenue. Despite this success, there are growing calls for economic diversification to reduce Macau’s heavy reliance on casinos.
Xi’s visit coincides with the inauguration of Macau’s new administration. Sam Hou-fai, the former president of Macau’s highest court, is set to be sworn in on December 20, 2024 as the region’s fourth post-handover leader. Notably, Sam will be the first leader born in mainland China and without a business background. In his remarks, Sam has emphasized the need to curb the "barbaric expansion" of the casino sector and to explore alternative revenue streams.
Analysts suggest that Macau’s economic diversification and integration into the Greater Bay Area, a regional development initiative linking Macau with Hong Kong and Guangdong, will dominate discussions during Xi’s visit.
According to Ben Lee, a casino consultant, Xi may inspect non-gaming investments pledged by Macau’s casino operators two years ago. Hengqin Island, partially leased to Macau to expand its land supply for development, is also expected to feature prominently in Xi’s itinerary.
Security measures have been heightened in anticipation of Xi’s visit. Authorities have implemented a temporary ban on drones, partially suspended rail services, and increased security checks for visitors from nearby Hong Kong. Drivers on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, a critical connection between the regions, are also undergoing stricter checks.
While the full details of Xi’s schedule remain undisclosed, his visit underscores Beijing’s commitment to shaping Macau’s future. As the city marks 25 years under Chinese rule, the focus is on balancing its gaming-driven economy with sustainable development and aligning its growth with China’s broader strategic goals.
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