L Ella Lei, representing the Macau Federation of Trade Unions (FAOM), has expressed concerns over the impact of the new Outdoor Performance Venue on the businesses of local small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
In a written inquiry to the government, the lawmaker expressed concerns about the fact that the new venue is located in Cotai due to the need for enough space, as well as traffic and noise concerns, which might not align with the purpose of increasing the business of local SMEs through the visitors attending the events.
Lei said that, according to government-provided information, the authorities have so far received around 10 proposals for events at this new venue scheduled to take place this year from organizers in Asia, Europe, and the United States.
The lawmaker suggested that the government take the initiative or encourage the event organizers to introduce schemes to allow visitors and residents participating in the performances or sports events to enjoy preferential discounts on community spending, among other measures, to attract those visitors to visit other places in Macau and spend at those locations too.
The same lawmaker also suggested that the government find attractive ways to extend the length of stay of tourists, revitalize the local community economy, and continue to promote the non-gaming elements to achieve the goal of diversifying the economy while benefiting local and traditional SMEs.
