Beijing's Zero-COVID Policy Drives Chinese to Despair**
Macau, a Special Administrative Region of China known for its casinos and vibrant nightlife, has been effectively closed down by the government in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. The city's more than 30 casinos, bars, cinemas, and other businesses have been shut down for at least a week, with strict measures in place to prevent people from entering or exiting certain zones.
The decision comes as China continues to implement its zero-COVID policy, which aims to stamp out all outbreaks of the virus. The policy has been met with frustration and despair by many Chinese citizens, who are struggling to cope with the impact of repeated lockdowns, mass testing, and travel restrictions.
Casinos Shut Down
The shutdown of Macau's casinos is a significant blow to the city's economy, which relies heavily on gaming revenue. Shares in casino operators such as Sands China, Wynn Macau, SJM Holdings, Galaxy Entertainment, Melco Resorts, and MGM Resorts have plummeted in response to the news.
Analysts predict that any recovery in gaming revenue may not occur until the end of the third or fourth quarter, due to the extended shutdown period. This will likely have a significant impact on the city's economy, which is already reeling from the effects of the pandemic.
Residents Frustrated
Residents of Macau are also feeling the pinch as they struggle to access healthcare facilities and undergo repeated COVID-19 tests. Over 90% of Macau's 600,000 residents have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, but the arrival of the fast-spreading Omicron variant has led to an increase in active cases.
Fights have broken out at testing centers, while some residents have had to queue for more than 20 hours to access healthcare facilities. The government's handling of the outbreak has been met with frustration and anger by many Macau residents.
Government Measures
The government has imposed strict measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 in Macau. Over 30 zones in the city have been locked down, with people unable to enter or exit certain areas for at least five days. Residents will be required to undergo mass COVID-19 tests four times this week, on top of six previous rounds of testing since mid-June.
Police will monitor flows of people outside and stringent punishments will be imposed for those who disobey the rules. The government has also added two hotels in popular casino resorts to be used as COVID medical facilities as they try to increase capacity to handle the surge of infections.
Impact on Economy
The shutdown of Macau's casinos is likely to have a significant impact on the city's economy, which relies heavily on gaming revenue. The city's GDP is expected to take a hit, and many businesses are likely to struggle to stay afloat during the extended shutdown period.
The government has previously been hesitant to close casinos due to its mandate to protect jobs. However, the severity of the outbreak has forced authorities to take drastic measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Macau's effective closure is a stark reminder of the impact that COVID-19 can have on even the most vibrant and bustling cities. The government's zero-COVID policy may have its benefits, but it also comes with significant economic and social costs. As the world continues to grapple with the pandemic, it is clear that the road to recovery will be long and arduous for many communities around the globe.