Analysis | MSAR needs to avoid becoming ‘gaming neighborhood’

Macau needs a new strategy in order to avoid becoming just a ‘gaming neighborhood’ catering to Chinese tourists, according to a local economist. José Isaac Duarte claims that the authorities in Zhuhai have set up an “ambitious plan” that includes Hengqin Island, which hinders Macau’s “ambitions for geographical expansion,” an expansion that he considers critical to the aim of diversifying the economy.
“The plan includes leisure parks, harbors, convention centers, luxury residential condominiums and projects that compete with Macau. What is left for Macau is gambling in a diversification scenario that will inevitably be limited,” he told Lusa.
The economist argues that the Zhuhai Special Economic Zone authorities are designing a plan that matches their own local interests. However, it remains to be seen “how Macau’s interest should be defended,” including the maintenance of the region’s identity and uniqueness.
“There is the need for strategic reflection, if someone is willing to do it,” José Isaac Duarte said. “Either we go down a different path, or the economy will rely increasingly on gaming and people will visit only to gamble.” He added that nowadays most of the visitors only remain for a few hours and spend little money. Hence, “There is the need to attract tourists with diversified interests and who are willing to stay longer.” MDT/Lusa