As the December 31 deadline approaches, the era of Macau's satellite casinos is drawing to a close. According to the latest announcement from the Macau SAR government, all preparations for the exit are progressing smoothly, labor arrangements are basically ready, and measures to prevent and control the impact on surrounding communities have been implemented, ensuring the process is orderly and controllable without significant social upheaval.
Orderly exit of satellite casinos, smooth transition preparations
The three-year transition period stipulated by Macau's gambling laws is nearing its end. Macau SAR Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng emphasized that the government has established an inter-departmental coordination group responsible for overseeing the closure of satellite casinos, ensuring all steps comply with current regulations. "We pay special attention to maintaining social order throughout the process," Ho Iat Seng told reporters after the 26th anniversary celebration of the Macau SAR on December 20, "These satellite casinos have been rooted in the community for many years, requiring close cooperation between departments to minimize disruption to residents' lives." This transformation is not only a legal requirement but also an important measure by the Macau SAR government to balance social stability and economic continuity. PASA's official website will continue to monitor subsequent policy adjustments.
Proper placement of 3,500 employees, targeted support for surrounding business districts
In terms of labor transformation, the government has confirmed that nearly 3,500 former satellite casino employees have successfully transitioned to new positions. So far, no complaints of labor disputes have been received, which is considered a key indicator of a smooth transition. The Secretary for Economy and Finance, Lei Wai Nong, revealed that the government is closely monitoring the business conditions of the commercial areas around the former satellite casinos, such as NAPE and ZAPE. "We are not just watching these areas being affected, but are taking proactive measures," Lei Wai Nong said, "For example, by widening pedestrian crossings to improve regional connectivity, extending the International Light Festival activities to the NAPE area, and planning to hold more themed festivals to attract foot traffic."
Economic diversification becomes a new focus, deepening regional cooperation for the future
To further support community commerce, relevant departments have approved the operating permits for outdoor seating at alleyway restaurants, receiving positive responses from business owners. Ho Iat Seng also discussed Macau's broader economic direction, noting that during a recent report to Beijing, national leaders fully affirmed the SAR government's efforts to promote moderate economic diversification. The economic restructuring of Macau is an inevitable trend. Currently, the SAR government is advancing four major projects aimed at creating broader socio-economic benefits. Ho Iat Seng called for society to build consensus and strengthen coordination with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Hengqin Cooperation Zone, believing that close regional cooperation will help Macau steadily advance its economic diversification process while bidding farewell to the era of satellite casinos, bringing new development opportunities to the industry.
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