The Government believed that the projected monthly gaming revenue of about 7 billion patacas would be adequate to keep the six gaming operators in business, the Secretary for Economy and Finance, Mr Francis Tam Pak Yuen, reiterated today.

Mr Tam made the remarks when he was interviewed by the press after attending a reception. Asked about the operation of Las Vegas Sands Corp, which had filed documents to relevant American authorities revealing its financial position, Mr Tam said the Government was aware of the news and reaffirmed that the monthly gaming revenue of about 7 billion patacas would be adequate for the six operators to continue their business in Macao.

Considering the effects of the financial turmoil, the Government would introduce measures in the upcoming policy address to support Macao’s small- and medium-sized companies, which held an important role in Macao’s economy, and try to maintain the momentum of economic expansion.

He said that the Government also paid much attention to the operation of large companies, and would continue to enhance Macao’s business environment.

He reiterated that the operation of small- and medium-sized companies and employment of local workers were of great importance to Macao’s economic policies.