As Macau approaches the end of its satellite casino era, government officials say preparations for the December 31 deadline have moved forward without disruption. Authorities report that the withdrawal of these gaming operations is unfolding in an orderly manner, with labor arrangements largely settled and mitigation measures in place to address potential effects on surrounding communities.

The satellite casino phase-out follows a three-year transitional period set out under Macau’s gaming law. With that period now concluding, the government has emphasized that the process remains aligned with legal requirements while prioritizing social stability and economic continuity.

Workforce Transition Advances Without Complaints

Officials confirmed that close to 3,500 employees formerly linked to satellite casinos have already secured new positions. According to the government, no labor-related complaints have been filed so far, which authorities see as an indicator that the transition has proceeded smoothly. The reassignment of staff has been one of the most closely watched aspects of the withdrawal, given the long history of satellite casinos within Macau’s gaming landscape.

Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai addressed the matter while speaking to reporters after attending a reception on December 20 marking the 26th anniversary of the establishment of the Macau Special Administrative Region. He explained that an interdepartmental coordination group had been formed to oversee the closure of satellite casinos. This body was tasked with managing labor arrangements, supervising the cessation of gaming activities, and ensuring that all steps complied with existing legislation.

According to Asia Gaming Brief, Sam said the government’s approach focused on maintaining order throughout the process. He noted that satellite casino operations had been embedded in local communities for many years, which made coordination across departments essential to reduce disruption as the deadline approached.

Monitoring Effects on Surrounding Business Areas

Beyond employment issues, officials have turned their attention to the possible impact on commercial districts near former satellite casino sites. Secretary for Economy and Finance Tai Kin Ip said the government has kept a close watch on business conditions in areas such as NAPE and ZAPE, where many satellite casinos had operated.

Tai explained that authorities have remained in frequent contact with merchants to better understand challenges arising during the adjustment period. Based on this feedback, the government has been studying and introducing measures aimed at improving the local business environment and encouraging foot traffic.

Infrastructure changes have formed part of these efforts. Officials cited improvements to connectivity between districts, including the widening of pedestrian crossings, to make movement between NAPE and ZAPE more convenient. The government has also organized consumption-focused activities to draw visitors into the area. One example involved extending international light and shadow festival events into NAPE, with additional themed festivals planned for the district in the near future.

Community Support and Long-Term Economic Direction

To support neighborhood businesses, relevant departments have granted operating licenses that allow restaurants located on inner streets to set up outdoor seating. Tai said operators responded positively to this policy, as it provided an additional way to attract customers. Authorities stated they will continue tracking business performance in these communities and refine support measures through cross-departmental coordination.

Sam also addressed Macau’s broader economic direction, referring to his recent duty visit to Beijing. He said President Xi Jinping had expressed full recognition of the Macau SAR government’s work, including its efforts to promote appropriate economic diversification. According to the Chief Executive, the city’s economic structure and an increasingly complex external environment make moderate diversification both necessary and aligned with central government guidance.

The SAR government is currently advancing four major projects intended to generate wider socio-economic benefits. Sam called on different sectors of society to build consensus and strengthen coordination with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area and the Hengqin cooperation zone. He said closer regional cooperation would help Macau move forward with diversification while managing the transition away from satellite casino operations.