analysts, but the May data exceeded the same predictions. For the first time in four months, the actual numbers exceeded expectations.

According to the Hong Kong Standard report, the key to May's success was the increase in tourist traffic in the region, specifically from mainland China. The government continued to ease travel restrictions to Macau, with tourists flocking to the area during the Golden Week holiday.

In May, the number of visitors to Macau continued to increase. According to data from the Macao Government Tourism Office, there were about 167 tourists who came to the area during a five-day holiday with 93% of them coming from the mainland.

Gambling revenue declined rapidly after the end of Golden Week. Non-Golden Week gaming revenue was actually 10% lower than in April. One analyst wrote that the decline shows that the market is not as much in demand as it used to be without holiday tourism.

The number of guest arrivals increased 93% from February and 25% from April. The current numbers, however, are still lower 21% from May 492, before the pandemic.

Unfortunately, the number of new ones COVID-000 cases in China are rising, adding some uncertainty to Macau's road to a full recovery. In the event of a significant increase, the government could re-impose some travel restrictions that would hurt Macau's tourism industry and ultimately Macau's gambling gross revenue.