Information from Macau’s Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) has revealed that visitor spending in the three months to 30 September 2020, excluding gaming spend, dropped 93.3% year-on-year to MOP$1.01 billion (US$126.5 million). The decline included a 94.0% fall from overnight visitors to MOP$726 million (US$90.9 million) and 90.5% from same-day visitors to MOP$286 million (US$35.8 million).
It also saw a 12% decline per person, with each visitor spending on average MOP$1,349 (US$169). The spending of those from mainland China fell by 20.6% to MOP$1,343, although per-capita spending of those visitors travelling under the Individual Visit Scheme grew 78.8% to MOP$3,885.
As reported by Inside Asian Gaming, the number of visitor arrivals in 3Q20 fell 86.7% year-on-year but increased by more than 1,400% over the second quarter due to the relaxing of some border restrictions.
The primary source of visitor spending was shopping, comprising 66.9% of the total, followed by food and beverage at 15.8% and accommodation at 13.9%. Per-capita shopping spending of visitors increased by 30.2% year-on-year to MOP$903, led spending on cosmetics and perfume, and local food products.
Average spend per person in the third quarter grew considerably among those visiting for the purpose of vacation and for business and professional activities, but declined for those attending MICE events or coming to Macau to shop.
