Key points:
- Over 300 merchants visited since 10 June
- Measures include tourism promotions, cross-border ticketing perks and SME support
- Officials expect footfall to remain but purchasing behaviour has shifted
As reported by Macao Daily, the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT) has stepped up efforts to support businesses in the NAPE district as the end of satellite casino operations draws near.
Since 10 June, the bureau has visited more than 300 shops located in the area, which is home to several of these soon-to-close venues.
Lau Kit Lon, Head of the Industrial Development Department, noted that merchants have generally not seen a drop in foot traffic but observed that spending behaviour has changed.
The visits aim to understand merchants’ concerns, introduce business support policies, and help those considering transformation or digitalisation strategies. According to Lau, the DSEDT will maintain regular outreach with tailored support based on different environmental and time factors.
Good to know: DSEDT is promoting SME digitalisation and offering guidance for business upgrades. The area remains popular with tourists, especially due to its concentration of four-star hotels
To assist with revitalisation, the Government is implementing several initiatives. These include bringing in international IPs to create photo attractions that draw both residents and tourists into the area. In addition, the bureau is working with mainland ticketing platforms to offer promotional bundles – such as Grand Prix Museum passes and shopping vouchers – to concert-goers. Further proposals include providing discount vouchers to hotel guests staying in the district and encouraging local chambers and associations to organise more distinctive community events.
These efforts are designed to enhance the area’s vibrancy and help merchants transition amid changing consumer dynamics. A hotline has been set up to offer assistance to businesses seeking support.
