Operator News
China – Seven satellite casinos could close in Macau this summer
By Phil - 24 March 2022
Seven satellite casinos in Macau, equating to around 40 per cent of the market, are likely to cease operations by the summer with new rules for visa applications, reduced cash flow, and the continued effect of the pandemic combining to take them out.
Macau has 18 satellite casinos in total with14 of these operating as third-party promoted casinos run via SJM’s licences and four via Galaxy Entertainment and Melco Resorts.
Secretary for Economy and Finance Lei Wai Nong recently announced plans to extend the current gaming concessions for an extra six months, taking the deadline to December 31. Satellite casinos could see their deadline to sort out any ownership issues extended from three to five years.
Legislator Chan Chak Mo said: “We don’t want anyone to become unemployed because of this. That’s why the three year grace period was provided to reduce this impact. Maybe some people think three years is not sufficient. Legislators asked if the period could be increased to five years. The government did not say if it would do so, just consider.”
