Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, has voiced support for a proposed plan allowing multiple trips between Hengqin and Macau, stating that it would greatly benefit the long-term growth of the gaming industry.
Speaking to local media, Ho is quoted as emphasising the potential advantages of opening up the multiple-entry visa scheme, citing its positive impact on both Macau's and Hengqin's development.
Ho highlighted the stark difference in hotel room availability between Macau and Las Vegas, with Macau only possessing one-third of the hotel rooms found in the latter. He also noted that hotel accommodations in Hengqin are more affordable compared to Macau.
Ho suggested that enabling mainland travelers to undertake multiple round trips to Macau through Hengqin would be advantageous for the sustained growth of both regions.
In February 2024, according to government data, there were a total of 3,293,564 visitor arrivals, a 107% increase from the same period the year prior. This figure is also the highest number since August 2019.
Concurrently, Macau's gross gaming revenue (GGR) reached MOP19.5bn ($2.43bn) in March, reflecting a 53% rise from the year prior. These statistics underscore the crucial role of tourism and gaming revenue in Macau's economy.
The proposed multiple-entry visa scheme, initially put forth by the Macau government, is designed to cater to Chinese tour groups. It aims to facilitate multi-entry access between Macau and Hengqin within a specified timeframe.
This initiative seeks to streamline accommodation procedures for tour group visitors, enabling them to explore Macau while staying in Hengqin hotels. Present visa regulations restrict mainland visitors to a single trip to Macau on a visa, hindering such lodging arrangements.
