Gov’t forecasts gaming revenue to reach MOP202b this year

The Secretary for Economy and Finance, Lei Wai Nong, said earlier at the Legislative Assembly (AL) that the local gaming industry is projected to conclude 2023 with gross gaming revenue (GGR) totaling MOP202 billion.

He predicted a further increase to MOP216 billion next year based on government studies, and stated that the government hopes for all involved to “do their share of work so that this goal can be reached.”

Based on these positive forecasts, the Secretary said that the government could resume measures that directly benefit the population such as reinstating the annual injection of MOP7,000 into the permanent residents’ Provident Fund accounts. He additionally anticipated a return to growth in Financial Reserve accounts, which were used to sustain the economy over the pandemic.

Responding to lawmakers’ queries on gaming operators fulfilling their contracts, Lei assured that, “All operators are meeting their duties without major issues. Any time an issue arises, the operators swiftly resolve the problem so contract terms are met.”

Addressing concerns about an alleged workers’ blacklist among the concessionaires that would preclude the employment by other concessionaires of workers who had previously had problems while working for one of the concessionaires, Lei remarked that such a list “is impossible exist” as there is no legal provision allowing the operation of a blacklist.

The Secretary referred to a previous investigation by the Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL), but the investigation concluded that some workers had been rejected by certain casinos due to failing background checks, although Lei did not elaborate on the nature of such checks.

José Pereira Coutinho, who initially raised the topic, has said that concessionaires are making use of warning letters and other tools to apply pressure on employees who voice discontentment with some of the policies and practices of the companies, which infringe upon these workers’ rights.

In response, Lei requested further information and evidence to allow DSAL and the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau to act on the allegations.