Macao to remain unchallenged by Hong Kong

2007-09-17 14:37:23

Hong Kong, which already has restricted gambling rules, has said it will not compete with Macao when it comes to casino revenues.

The secretary for commerce Frederick Ma said that while Macao's growth as a gambling hub is an economic threat to Hong Kong, it will not consider building casinos.

Last year, Macao was declared the world's biggest casino market, with gambling revenue on the Chinese enclave overtaking Las Vegas for the first time.

"The government doesn't think it would help the tourism industry if Hong Kong built one or two casinos because Macau has many casinos like Las Vegas," said Mr Ma.

Instead, Hong Kong will challenge Macao by building more convention centers in the hope of attracting more business customers.

Hong Kong's decision means that Macao is set to remain as Asia's major international gambling destination, although Singapore and Goa are hoping to increase their share of the market over the coming years.