China Installs New Leader for Casino Enclave Macau
Fernando Chui will be the new leader of the Chinese possession Macau, although the election has yet to be held. The casino gambling region and former Portugese colony has Chui as the only candidate, an orderly election the way Beijing likes them.
Gaming industry insiders are wondering whether Chui's advancement to the top of the colony will result in changes in the mainland policies on the gambling zone, especially in regard to visa restrictions. A limitation on frequency and length of stay by the Chinese government on visas for its population is a main cause for the slowed economy in Macau.
But others are saying Chui will have no choice but to continue existing regulations.
"Everyone accepts gambling policy in the near future is designed to slow the industry because it grew too fast," says Larry So, a political analyst at Macau Polytechnic Institute.
Chui has promised to diversify Macau's economy, so that it is not so dominated by and dependent on gambling and casino revenue. He has sworn to "make great efforts to promote the sustainable growth of gaming-related industries."
Chui has already received 286 of 300 votes from the election commission, leaving a poll today as a formality. Chui will assume office December 20th, the ten year anniversary of the colony reversion to Chinese rule.
