It is another little incursion by the authorities into gaming operations in Macau. This time it is a rule that from 1 January 2009 all front-line staff must wear ID tags showing whether they are local or imported employees. The order came from the Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) to ‘retain a harmonious work environment.’ The public is invited to report in confidence any suspicion of inaccurate badges to the DSAL.

The SAR government will be keeping a close watch on possible financing problems on casino projects in Macau, according to Francis Tam Pak Yuen, Secretary for Economy and Finance. The remark followed the Las Vegas Sands’ filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission which said the company was in danger of defaulting on debt. Tam commented that the government would maintain communications with gaming operators to ensure normal operation of the market.

The Macau gaming market this year has been hit by tightening visa restrictions for mainland Chinese and the global economic downturn. VIP high roller numbers have recently fallen, a 14% decline in the September quarter from the previous quarter. Junket operators have also been affected by the credit crisis.

The Secretary for Economy and Finance said that next year the government would focus on helping small to medium sized development to stabilise the economic foundation of Macau. He also remarked that it was inevitable that Macau’s economy would be affected by the global financial situation. (E-11.10.08)

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