Employment concerns again dominated discussions during the policy debate for the economy and finance portfolio, as reported by Jornal do Cidadão.
Lawmakers raised questions on the transition of employees affected by satellite casino closures, the review of foreign labor approvals and the tightening of enforcement against illegal work.
Secretary for Economy and Finance Tai Kin Ip said that staff redeployment from the six satellite venues that have already ceased operations had proceeded smoothly.
Approximately 1,600 seconded employees have returned to their respective concessionaire companies. A further four venues are scheduled to close by the end of the year, involving about 3,200 local workers.
To support affected staff, dedicated task groups and hotlines have been set up. Tai said authorities had so far received 29 enquiries related to labor rights but no requests for additional intervention.
Renewals for non-resident workers will be adjusted based on industry needs and whether local residents are available and willing to take the roles.
Lawmakers Lei Cheng I, Leong Sun Iok and Lei Leong Wong pressed the Government for clearer targets and quantifiable indicators, including local-hire ratios for sectors such as finance, higher education, public services and gaming operators.
They also urged stronger action against illegal work, noting that such activity increasingly involves freelance or specialised services rather than traditional labour sectors.
Chan said Macau, as a tourism-driven economy undergoing recovery, still requires imported labor for heavy-duty and shift-based roles that locals are less inclined to take. However, clerical and administrative positions in major institutions should prioritise local candidates through dynamic adjustments at the renewal stage.
On illegal employment, Chan confirmed that non-resident self-employed workers face fines of MOP 20,000 (US$2,490) to MOP 50,000 and may be barred from re-entering Macau. Employers hiring illegal workers face criminal liability.
He added that authorities will continue enforcement efforts and remain open to public feedback as they consider updates to the legal framework.
Labour Affairs Bureau Director Chan Un Tong said the Government will conduct a comprehensive review of the foreign labor approval mechanism
