Once a gambling paradise and haven for casino facilities, Macau has tightened many regulations over the past 18 months, making it very difficult for casinos to operate as before, and these regulations are severely affecting the revenue generated by casinos.
Billionaire and Wynn Resorts president Steve Wynn has been patient with Macau’s anti-corruption crackdown for the past 18 months, but last week slammed Macau authorities and tightening regulations in place to control the industry. Wynn was very outspoken, describing some of the government’s decisions and regulations as mysterious and utterly absurd. Wynn specifically targeted government restrictions on casinos, describing them as “the most counterintuitive and irrational decision ever made.”
His strong condemnation of the Macau authorities drew attention and did not go well with the Macau government. They did not directly respond to Steve Wynn’s comments, but the initial response was very diplomatic, with the government expressing regret for its opinion that it would not change its policy. The Macau government has also requested a meeting with Macau President Gamal Aziz Winn.
Perhaps in an unrelated matter, local station Teleleifusa ̃oo de Macao released a quote from Cloe Chao, which said, “The authorities have already sent people to investigate the casinos, but the game operator will fine rather than improve the situation. I think the punishment is too weak and they will continue to repeat the same violations.” 안전놀이터
Striker workers have complained that casinos have converted large market gaming areas into new smoking lounges and had employees enter the areas to supply ashtray to customers. The Game Inspection and Coordination Bureau, the Labor Secretariat and the Health Bureau immediately investigated the claims and reported that Win Macau had indeed violated smoking regulations and had not installed smoking cessation signs required by law. Authorities have strongly protested against Win Macau’s management and asked them to take immediate action to correct these non-compliance.
Win Macao could fine between MOP 10,000 and 100,000 MOPs (roughly US$12,500) for violating its anti-smoking mark. A Win Macau representative said the breach was caused by a misinterpretation of regulations and that the casino had implemented immediate compensation and changed smoking areas.