Gov’t aims to boost ZAPE district with hotel offers, rewards, and influencer campaigns

[Photo; Ricaela Diputado]

The director of the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT), Yau Yun Wah, recently replied to a written inquiry stating that the government plans to use several measures to boost the ZAPE district, including hotel offers, rewards, and influencer campaigns.

The incentives are aimed at attracting more tourists and residents to the district, an area struggling after the closure of its satellite casinos.

The inquiry was made by legislator Lee Koi Ian, who had inquired about strategies to improve the local business environment.

“The government will continue to closely monitor business conditions for small and medium-sized enterprises [SMEs] in the ZAPE district and its surrounding areas,” Yau stated.

He added that authorities would also “step up cross-department coordination” to expedite streetscape enhancements, environmental upgrades, and infrastructure works.

According to the response, the Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO) will spearhead a range of measures focused on ZAPE. These include collaboration with key online platforms to create a page dedicated to Macau travel and offering hotel deals in the district, though the specific platforms were not named.

MGTO intends to engage with social media personalities to highlight the restaurants and accommodations available in ZAPE.

This effort follows the closure last year of all satellite casinos in Macau, with a significant number of these venues situated in ZAPE. Their shutdown has led to a considerable drop in both visitor numbers and revenue for nearby hotels and businesses, particularly smaller ones.

Randy Chung, president of the Macau Hotel Association’s executive committee, mentioned last month that the hotel industry in the district has suffered from these closures and that businesses will need time to adapt, according to Macau Business.

The government’s 2026 Policy Address included a pledge to introduce a variety of cultural and festive activities aimed at revitalizing ZAPE and transforming its identity through engaging, tourism-centered events.

Last year, the area hosted several such activities, including a food festival and a Christmas market, although turnout and enthusiasm were relatively low.

According to Yau, “The DSEDT is continuously working to introduce programs and events that foster business growth in the area. We are exploring options to broaden the customer base and increase visitor traffic. This includes collaborating with digital payment services and lifestyle apps to introduce spending incentives specific to the district and enhancing promotional efforts to draw both locals and tourists for shopping and leisure.”

The bureau plans to increase collaboration with local trade organizations to support community-focused economic projects and promote active involvement from the district’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Yau stated, “Our vision is to develop the ZAPE district into a center that combines business, culture, and community life. This will increase the appeal of the area for exploration and expenditure, generating new opportunities for SMEs.” Ricaela Diputado