The Venetian Macau has laid off 500 employees as the impact of falling mainland visitor numbers takes its toll on the gambling enclave, the Wall Street Journal reported. Staff working hours will also be reduced. The redundancies represent a 2% reduction in hotel and casino operator Las Vegas Sands’ Macau workforce. The company, which operates three casinos in the territory, has already suspended construction activity at two sites in the Cotai area, where the Venetian is based. Macau’s gaming industry has suffered since mainland authorities tightened travel restrictions to the territory and earlier ambitious growth projections are now being questioned. Nevertheless, new developments have been announced recently by the Ho family – in partnership with Dubai-based Jumeirah Group – and Harrah’s Entertainment, the company behind the Caesar’s brand.