Secretary for Economy and Finance Lei Wai Nong revealed today that casino operations will be allowed to resume starting from midnight of February 20.
Local authorities had ordered the closure of all casinos in the city for 15 days since February 5, together with cinemas, theatres, indoor amusement parks, video game rooms, internet cafes, billiard and bowling establishments, saunas, massage parlours, beauty salons, gyms, karaoke, bars, and night clubs
However only casinos will resume operations on Thursday, with all other establishments to remain closed.
Casinos were given a 30 days period starting from February 20 to restart operations, with all casinos having to be open after that period.
It had not been made clear before by authorities if health concerns would lead to the extension of this suspension but it was made clear today that operations will indeed resume after the 15-day suspension period.
“The casinos re-opening had a very cautious health evaluation about the contagion risks. We have guidelines for the distance between tables, cleaning policies and the use of health masks […] We can’t open the sector without guaranteeing the security of residents and the 84,000 non-resident workers employed in casinos,” Secretary Lei said.
The Macau government also revealed today that starting from midnight of February 20, all non-resident workers wishing to enter Macau SAR and who have visited Mainland China in the 14 days prior to their entry, need to undergo medical observation for 14 days in Zhuhai.
The Macau government indicated they have informed local companies about the measures in advance, suggesting employers should look to provide non-resident employees with accommodation so they do not have to leave the city.
Only 1,450 tourists entered Macau yesterday, Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture Elsie Ao Ieong U said.
[To be updated]
