Gaming scholar Davis Fong Ka Chio expects the Hong Kong Zhuhai Macau Bridge to attract VIP players and MICE sector visitors as it ramps up, Macau Business reports.
The HZMB officially opened for traffic on October 24, 2018, which has been attributed to a higher visitor rate in the first few months of operation.
Mr. Fong said while the first stages will see an increase of same-day and mass market visitors, more VIP and Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) sector visitors are expected to come through the bridge in the latter stages.
“The first phase of the impact will basically be the lower mass market and one-day trippers. The second wave I strongly believe is the VIP. Why? Because many people told me it takes only one hour from Hong Kong Central to Macau Peninsula… More and more VIP will choose to drive from Hong Kong to Macau,” said Fong.
Regarding the MICE sector, Fong said the improved connectivity between Macau and the Hong Kong International Airport is the most important element to improve MICE market visitation.
“Now we don’t have direct access from the Hong Kong [checkpoint] island to HKIA, however, it is under construction so we hope in two years time this direct access can be finished. This will boost convention visitors, which mainly hesitate to come to Macau because of traffic arrangements. If they fly to Hong Kong they can take a bus coach directly to the door of the hotel I think it’s amazing,” the legislator added.
Asia Gaming Brief is a news and intelligence service providing up to date market information for worldwide executives on relevant gaming issues in Asia.
ASIA GAMING BRIEF
PO Box 1139, Macau SAR
Tel: +853 2871 7267
Fax: +853 2871 7264