Ban could hit profits and jobs
The Macau government is considering raising the casino entrance and working age from 18 to 21, in a move that could ease public criticism of the booming gaming industry but could also hit casino profits and job opportunities for young people.
Disclosing the plan yesterday, Chief Executive Edmund Ho Hau-wah said it was impossible to let gambling expand infinitely, 'otherwise social costs will mount'.
Casino workers under the age of 21 will not face redundancy if the new rule is imposed, as Mr Ho promised them a three-year grace period.
Mr Ho was responding during a question-and-answer session on his policy address to a query by lawmaker Angela Leong On-kei, a director of casino operator Sociedade de Turismo e Divers?es de Macau.
Legislators including Ms Leong welcomed the plan, but fears were expressed in Hong Kong that it might just turn young people towards other equally harmful forms of gambling.