Macau: 90% of gaming management are local staff
Government maintains ban on importing foreign dealers and emphasises fair work practices.
Key points:
– Over 10,400 locals hold mid-to-senior roles in gaming firms
– Government stands firm on restrictions for foreign dealers and pit supervisors
– Labour Bureau urges fair treatment and job matching for local workers
The Macau Government has reaffirmed its stance on protecting local employment within the gaming sector.
Secretary for Economy and Finance Tai Kin Ip told the Legislative Assembly that the authorities remain committed to barring foreign workers from key front-line positions such as dealers, pit supervisors and professional drivers.
According to Macao Daily, Labour Affairs Bureau Director Chan Un Tong stated that, as of May, 10,407 locals were employed in mid-to-senior positions across casino operations.
Foreign workers held 1,187 such roles, meaning local representation reached 89.8%.
Legislator José Maria Pereira Coutinho raised concerns about working conditions for dealers, citing high workloads and inadequate rest. Tai responded that the Labour Relations Law provides safeguards on shift limits, break durations and safe working environments. He encouraged resolution through employer-employee dialogue in good faith.
Good to know: The Government also sees value in a culturally diverse management structure to support Macau’s ambition of becoming a centre for international tourism and cooperation
The Labour Affairs Bureau will continue inspecting labour practices and handling complaints. Chan reminded workers that same-job comparisons must consider experience, qualifications and business scale. If employees feel their rights have been infringed, they are encouraged to report to the Bureau for proper follow-up.
Tai also noted that over 60% of the unemployed are in temporary transition, with most re-entering the workforce within one to three months. The government pledged to continue improving job matching and training to support local employment.
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