Reports: Gov’t requests casino operators to reduce on-duty staff by 90%

The government has allegedly requested casino operators to reduce on-duty staff by 90%, which comes as a hit to the sector and its employees, which are already under turmoil.

This comes as Macau is facing an unprecedented outbreak, its largest since early 2020.

The directive from the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau means that casino operators may have to reduce their staff temporarily from July 1 to July 8, according to media reports.

However, the measure may continue as Macau is facing a large outbreak that has led to the government holding three rounds of mass testing this week, totaling six since the surge of cases started two weeks ago. 

The Times is aware that casino operators have already placed several of their employees on unpaid leave, with some periods of unpaid leave lasting up to two weeks.

Others, meanwhile, have been encouraged to take leave and will be paid 50% of their salary under relevant operator schemes. 

Casino employees have been under pressure in the last week as a new directive requiring them to provide a 48-hour nucleic acid test (NAT) prior to going to work came into effect. The government delayed the policy for three days after it saw chaotic large crowds gathered at NAT stations. 

Information from the city’s statistics bureau noted last month that most of those who are unemployed and searching for new jobs were previously engaged in gaming and junket activities, and in the construction sector. LV