The context of the upcoming Government Action Plan is not easy: the external scenario continues to deteriorate with renewed trade tensions between the United States and China, and a global economy at real risk of recession. Internally, gaming is still seeking its new balance, and economic diversification remains stuck in the realm of intentions rather than moving into tangible achievements.
In this context, it becomes essential to rethink priorities. And, urgently, to reconsider the reliance on measures such as cash checks and consumption vouchers.
There is a principle of social justice that can no longer be ignored: it is unacceptable that the current model—equal but not equitable—fails to recognize the real inequalities in society, distributing public resources without any criterion of progressivity; decision-makers must save on those who do not need it and give more to those who truly require such support.
But these tools have become recurring practices in moments of economic or social pressure—just recall the consumption voucher plan during the pandemic. I accept that they may return in the short term, but over time they lose their exceptional effect and cease to be a solution.
Distributing money is not, in itself, an economic policy strategy. And it is even less so in a region with an economic model highly dependent on a single sector. With the possibility of a global recession looming, it is imperative that the Government abandons the illusion that internal consumption financed by checks solves the underlying problems of the local economy.
The alternative is clear: public investment with vision and criteria. What Macau needs—and what residents expect—are measures that strengthen the real economy, invest in innovation, create opportunities for qualified employment, diversify sources of public revenue, and prepare Macau to withstand external cycles.
It is understandable that there is pressure for immediate measures. The danger is lurking, and everyone wants instant solutions—checks and consumption vouchers can help ease the shock and are popular, but they are not structural. What is expected from this Government Action Plan is more ambition: that it does not merely manage expectations, but embraces public investment as an instrument of economic transformation and strengthens the confidence of those who live, work, and invest in Macau. If Macau wants to resist, it cannot continue merely distributing. It needs to invest.
Editor-in-Chief of PLATAFORMA.
