Macau to Review Casino Operators’ Commitment to Investments
Government to Assess Casino Investment Progress
Macau’s Chief Executive, Sam Hou Fai, has announced plans to evaluate the progress of the city’s six casino operators regarding their investment promises. This review will focus on both gaming and non-gaming investments outlined in their concession agreements, spanning the years 2023 to 2025.
Background on Casino Operators’ Investment Commitments
In December 2022, Macau issued new gaming licenses to six major casino operators: Sands, Galaxy, Wynn, MGM, Melco, and SJM. These companies pledged to inject billions into upgrading and expanding their resorts, with a strong emphasis on non-gaming developments.
During the 2026 Policy Address to the Legislative Assembly, Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai highlighted the importance of ensuring these operators fulfill their investment duties. Since securing their licenses, casino companies have been required to submit annual reports to Macau’s Special Administrative Region (SAR) government, detailing past investments and laying out future plans.
According to reports, the government will closely examine the operators’ financial commitments and project progress within both gaming and non-gaming sectors for the 2023-2025 period. Additionally, attention will be given to how well these companies meet their social responsibilities and comply with legal and contractual standards. The government encourages ongoing development of diverse tourism attractions alongside gaming investments.
Operators’ Progress and Economic Impact
The six licensed casino firms have collectively promised around $19.3 billion, allocating over $16 billion specifically to non-gaming initiatives. Nearly three years after licensing, several operators report having met many of their commitments, including hotel renovations, sponsorship of sports and cultural events, and the creation of family-friendly entertainment options.
Macau aims for non-gaming sectors to account for 60% of its gross domestic product by 2028. Though gaming remains the primary source of foreign revenue, the government anticipates strong revenue streams, with projections suggesting Macau’s November earnings could exceed $2.5 billion.
For 2025, the fiscal budget amendment forecasts gaming tax revenues at MOP 79.8 billion (approximately $9.87 billion), slightly adjusting the gross gaming revenue estimation from MOP 240 billion ($29.69 billion) to MOP 228 billion ($28.2 billion) due to global economic uncertainties and shifts in tourist spending.
Economic experts predict the GDP will grow by about 2.6% this year and hold a cautiously optimistic outlook for 2026, despite ongoing challenges such as international trade tensions.
