License renewal expected to take place as the government goes on a land return hunt enforcing the Macau Land Act.
This has raised concerns about land rights and possible cancellation of licenses by operators.
The government has already confiscated more than 100 land from other developers, who reportedly abused the land given to them or used it for purposes other than reported land. This caused a wave of reluctance by locals, entrepreneurs and even some lawmakers who were terrified by the crackdown, but the protests nevertheless did not stop the government from continuing the process.
This, of course, cooled the blood of casino operators because it could be affected by land returns. A senior casino executive, who prefers anonymity, explained in an interview with Reuters that the government would also target casino concessions, but it is not yet clear what the future holds for currently licensed casino operators and their gaming facilities.
This has raised another concern about future permits for casino operators. While most casino operators in Macau prefer to remain silent, others like Melco have expressed their opinions on the matter frankly. MELCO CEO and chairman Lawrence Ho expressed hope that the government will revive the growing casino industry in the region.
Officials denied the land seizure was related to the renewal of the casino license. Furthermore, the government explained that it was not considering any amendments to the Land Act. The Land Act was last amended . The purpose is to ensure the proper management and development of the land given to the concessionor. Under this Act, if land is not developed within a certain period of time as stipulated in the contract, the concession expires and the government allows land seizure.바카라사이트
Local authorities explained that the crackdown is aimed at stimulating concessions to develop and properly utilize the land. Developers have responded as a major setback in their development plans, citing unnecessary bureaucracy and lack of information.
Meanwhile, casino operators have begun to flatter local officials and craft plans to win their favor. For that purpose, operators will hire more locals (to reduce unemployment) and support local businesses. But casino operators still appear cautious, with Reuters reporting that they only sign short-term contracts with new employees.