The Gaming Inspection and Co-ordination Bureau (DICJ) has requested Macau Yat Yuen Canidrome Co. Ltd. relocate its operation within two years, effective from 21^st July 2016, at which time it must decide whether to cease dog racing. The decision follows lengthy evaluations by the University of Macau concerning the future of the Canidrome and whether it will help foster Macau's objective of becoming a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure in addition to promoting the diversification of the gaming industry. The university recently published its views on 'Pari-Mutuel's (Dog racing) operating conditions of the franchise and the impact upon the nearby community'.

Director of DICJ Paulo Martins Chan held a meeting with the executive director of Macau Yat Yuen Canidrome Co. Ltd., Angela Leong On Kei, and the CEO of Macau Yat Yuen Canidrome Co. Ltd., Lei Chi Man, to discuss the decision.

Chan said that if the Canidrome decides to stop running dog racing, they will have to handle several questions, including the severance of staff, resettlement of the dogs and relocation from the current venue. If the Canidrome decides to continue dog racing, they will have to improve the living standards and arrangement of racing of the race dogs to reach international standards within two years. They will also have to address the issue of relocation. Any new location for the Canidrome must abide by town planning regulations, taking care, in particular, to fulfill the requirements of the residents of Macao. The DICJ will only consider a new Canidrome application after the company is able to reach the requirements, on top of which the application will require Macao SAR Government input.

Leong expressed her understanding of the government's decision and promised appropriate arrangement and analysis would be undertaken prior to the deadline.