Authorities offer subsidies and vouchers to boost domestic tourism

In a bid to revive the local economy, Macau authorities are urging community organizations to promote day tours to Hengqin with the help of subsidies and spending vouchers.

Under a new initiative launched by the Macao Foundation, eligible community groups can apply for financial support to organize tours to the neighboring city until May 31. Each participant will receive a maximum grant of MOP200, as well as MOP100 in electronic vouchers to be used at participating F&B outlets.

“There are a large number of tourists coming to Macau, but we need to study what industries will enable them to stay and spend in Macau,” said Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng at a press conference on Sunday. “We hope to work with small and medium-sized enterprises on this.”

The tours, which are scheduled to start on June 15, will have a maximum of 40 participants each. Each joiner will receive a pair of MOP50 coupons, which are valid for 30 days, and will be expected to spend more than the face value of each coupon.

The initiative is the latest effort by officials to stimulate spending in Macau, as an ongoing exodus of consumers seeking more favorable prices across the border continues.

“In order to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the 25th anniversary of the founding of the Macao Special Administrative Region and the 3rd anniversary of the establishment of the Hengqin Guangdong-Macao Deep Cooperation Zone, we will promote the integrated development of Macau and Hengqin and boost the community economy of Macau,” the Macao Foundation said in a statement. staff reporter