In recent developments, Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, has openly supported a proposed plan to implement a multiple-entry visa scheme facilitating travel between Hengqin and Macau. This move, he believes, could be a game-changer for the sustained growth of the gaming industry in the region.
Ho, in his statements to local media, emphasized the significant advantages of opening up the multiple-entry visa scheme, foreseeing a positive impact on the development of both Macau and Hengqin. He highlighted key discrepancies, such as the disparity in hotel room availability between Macau and Las Vegas, advocating for strategic measures to address this gap.
Current Tourism Trends and Economic Impact
Recent government data reveals a substantial surge in visitor arrivals, reaching 3,293,564 in February 2024—an impressive 107% increase compared to the previous year. This figure marks the highest visitor count since August 2019, indicating a robust resurgence in tourism.
Concurrently, Macau’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) saw a noteworthy uptick, soaring to MOP19.5 billion ($2.43 billion) in March—a remarkable 53% surge year-on-year.
The Role of the Multiple-Entry Visa Scheme
The proposed multiple-entry visa scheme, initially championed by the Macau government, targets Chinese tour groups by facilitating multi-entry access between Macau and Hengqin within specified timeframes. The primary objective is to streamline accommodation procedures for tour group visitors, allowing them to explore Macau while lodging in more affordable Hengqin hotels.
Under current visa regulations, mainland visitors are limited to a single trip to Macau per visa, which complicates arrangements for extended stays or multi-destination itineraries. The proposed scheme aims to remove these barriers, fostering greater flexibility and accessibility for tourists.
Strategic Benefits and Implications
Ho envisions substantial benefits from enabling mainland travelers to undertake multiple round trips to Macau through Hengqin. Notably, he pointed out the comparative affordability of accommodations in Hengqin compared to Macau, addressing concerns regarding limited hotel room availability.
By encouraging a fluid movement of tourists between Macau and Hengqin, this initiative could bolster both regions’ tourism sectors and stimulate economic growth. Ho’s endorsement underscores the strategic vision of leveraging complementary resources between these neighboring areas to drive sustainable development.
The proposed multiple-entry visa scheme holds immense promise for Macau’s tourism and gaming sectors, with the potential to amplify visitor numbers and extend stays. Lawrence Ho’s backing signals industry recognition of the scheme’s transformative impact, aligning with broader efforts to enhance Macau’s attractiveness as a premier tourism and gaming destination.