The reason behind the delays is the new cases of Covid-19 detected in Macau in October. The new date for the meetings is set for 22-25 October 2021 and will be divided into morning and evening sessions to adhere to the social distancing regulations.

The government previously stated that the consultation period will not be extended, despite the disruptions in the schedule. The consultations originally began on 15 September and are set to run until 29 October, and community members who cannot make it to the meetings can submit their opinions in writing.

Not only public consultations are being impacted by the new surge of cases; organisers of Global Gaming Expo (G2E) Asia announced the in-person event was cancelled, reported GGRAsia. “In light of the ongoing Covid-19 disruption and continued travel restrictions across Asia Pacific, G2E Asia has shifted its focus to 2022 to ensure we meet the show’s high expectations, which we share with our valued exhibitors and attendees,” said Vera Ng, Project Director, Reed Exhibitions.

G2E Asia for 2021 was originally scheduled to take place in spring but was delayed several times, with the latest date set for 9-11 November. The organisers hope to have a proper in-person event again in 2022, as the last such event took place in 2019. The new plan is to hold the 2022 edition of G2E Asia from 30 August to 1 September in Cotai Expo at the Venetian Macao.