Static situation for Macau casino firms
The six licensed land-based casino operators in Macau are to not be asked to pay any more tax under the provisions of the draft gaming bill.
Macau is home to over 40 casinos operated by Galaxy Entertainment Group, SJM Holdings Limited, MGM China Holdings Ltd and Melco Resorts and Entertainment Limited. The firms are required to pay a 35% gross gaming revenues tax and smaller duties for every live dealer table, gaming machine and VIP room they operate.
Legislators in Macau are discussing the provisions of the draft gaming bill. The bill was passed with first reading in January. It is intended to govern the city's casino market for the next decade.
Chan claims that the draft gaming bill will not include any provision that would increase the current 1.25% junket commission rate.
Macau's draft gaming bill proposes to abolish satellite casinos and sub-concessions. It also proposes that all gambling operators should conduct business only out of premises owned by one of the six concessionaires.
Draft gaming bill would oblige casino operators in Macau to keep local government officials up to speed with any ‘major financial decision’ and bring more non-gaming elements to their facilities. All of these could come with grace implementation periods including a three-year respite for commission alteration.