Macau’s gambling disorder cases rise in 1H24
Macau’s Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) has reported on the rise of gambling disorder cases for the first half of the year.
Macau is an autonomous region on the south coast of China, across the Pearl River Delta from Hong Kong. It is the only jurisdiction in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) where casino gaming is lawful.
IAS highlighted the reports on gambling-related cases. This year’s first half saw 108 gambling-related cases compared to last year’s results of 169 cases.
People included in the report are from different groups:
- People who turned to casinos because of their financial issues – 24.1%
- People who turned to casinos solely for entertainment purposes – 21%
- People who turned to casinos to cope with their depression – 17%
Next to ordinary people are people working in gambling-related jobs, 1% of which are dealers.
There are different kinds of gambling types; however, baccarat remains the favorite one for the players. The percentage of these game-addicted problematic players is 47%, which is significantly higher than the percentage for basketball and football betting.
Speaking to a local media outlet, Wu I Mui, head of the Problem Gambling Prevention and Treatment division at the bureau, noted:
“Most individuals seeking help are between the ages of 30 and 39, with 40 percent being tourists.”
In order to minimize the numbers, IAS plans to continue the promotion of responsible gambling and increase the population’s awareness of the issue, especially concentrating on touristic areas.
FAQs
Is gambling legal in Macau?
Macau is the only place in China where gambling is legal.
What is the legal gambling age in Macau?
The legal gambling age in Macau is 21.
Which gambling activities are most problematic in Macau?
A popular card game Baccarat is the most problematic gambling activity in Macau.
How many gambling-related cases were reported in the first half of this year?
180 gambling-related cases were reported in the first half of this year.