Macau lawmakers approve tough new legislation to combat illegal gambling

The Macau Legislative Assembly has unanimously approved a new anti-illegal gambling bill, with all 32 lawmakers present voting in favor. This marks a significant step in the government’s efforts to strengthen regulations in the gambling hub.

The vote comes 10 months after the initial proposal was announced and takes place during the first session of the Assembly following a two-month summer recess. 

The new legislation targets a range of prohibited activities, including unlicensed casino-based money exchanges, the operation or promotion of unauthorized online gambling, mutual betting and unauthorized credit for gambling, and illegal games of fortune and fraudulent gambling.

Under the new law, individuals found guilty of unlicensed operations or mutual betting could face jail terms ranging from one to eight years. Similar penalties are set for illicit online gambling activities. Offenders involved in the illegal extension of credit may be sentenced to prison for one to five years, while those engaged in unauthorized currency exchanges on casino premises could face up to five years in prison and be banned from casinos for up to 10 years.

The legislation also grants authorities enhanced powers to search and investigate suspected illegal gambling activities, applicable both inside and outside casinos. 

This push for tougher gambling laws follows high-profile cases involving jailed junket operators, proving China's increasing interest in stringent regulations for Macau’s gambling industry.