Data from the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ) shows that Macau’s gaming revenue has beaten expectations and increased by 24% year-on-year in January 2026.
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Macau initiates a complete ban on all forms of gambling ads
Macau started a 30-day formal public consultation, running through August 2, that could result in a complete ban on all forms of gambling advertisements.
The Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT) announced it today, on July 4. The goal is to get public feedback on proposed changes to the region’s Advertising Activities Law, which hasn’t been modified for more than 30 years.
Yau Yun Wah, Director of DSEDT, noted that advertising practices, promotional media, and business content have considerably transformed since the law was passed, and it’s time for regulatory updates. He added that administrative licensing will be simplified, supported by revised advertising standards.
The consultation document highlights six key areas:
- redefining advertising terms,
- raising advertising standards for specific goods and services,
- regulating emerging ad models,
- streamlining the approval system,
- strengthening administrative oversight,
- updating the penalty framework.
One of the primary incentives is the potential ban of all forms of gambling-related promotion.
However, the Chinese special administrative region’s (SAR) government insists that the consultation is not a final decision but a way to gather opinions from the public. Citizens can access the consultation paper through multiple channels, including the government’s website and various public service centers.
The feedback can be submitted online (email, phone, fax, post) or offline. Additionally, 5 public consultation sessions will be held to spread the content and collect reactions.
If implemented, the prohibition of gambling ads would convey a bold regulatory outlook for the only jurisdiction in China where gambling is legal.
Macau is experiencing a rise in problem gambling and a record number of self-exclusions from casinos after authorities changed the focus from the VIP model to general public...
