Macau’s tourism, gaming sectors rebound amid new visa policies

Jenny Ortiz January 16, 2025

SiGMA news

Macau’s new visa policy for mainland Chinese residents from Zhuhai and Hengqin has led to a sharp rise in tourist arrivals, with visitor numbers from Zhuhai increasing by over 26 percent year-on-year. The policy, implemented on 1 January, allows residents with household registration and residence permits in these regions to apply for multiple-entry visas. These permits, valid for one year with unlimited entries capped at seven-day stays, are expected to add 20,000 daily visitors from these areas.

The Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO) reported daily visitor numbers exceeding 100,000 during early January, driven by the policy and preparations for the Lunar New Year festivities. To enhance the visitor experience, the MGTO organised fireworks displays and a float parade during the celebrations.

Gaming revenue outpaces projections

With this, Macau’s gaming industry continues to recover with 2024 gross gaming revenue (GGR) reaching MOP226.78 billion (€27.46 billion), a 23.9 percent increase from 2023. This figure surpassed government projections by 5 percent, despite a slight dip in December due to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit. Analysts estimate that the year achieved approximately 77 percent of pre-pandemic gaming revenue levels, reflecting sustained momentum in the sector.

For 2025, the Macau government has set a GGR target of MOP240 billion (€29.06 billion), alongside a forecasted MOP100 million (€12.1 million) tax revenue from junket commissions, a 233 percent rise from the previous year. These projections underscore expectations for continued growth in gaming activity.

North district faces tourism challenges

Despite the broader recovery, Macau’s North District struggles to attract visitors. Tourists primarily flock to larger hotels and entertainment venues in Cotai, bypassing older neighbourhoods with fewer attractions. Local authorities and businesses aim to revitalise the area by improving infrastructure and enhancing its appeal through collaboration with the government.

International visitor growth

While mainland China remains the dominant source of visitors, Macau is actively diversifying its tourism base. Promotional campaigns in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific regions aim to attract 3 million international travellers in 2025. The success of these efforts will determine the sustainability of Macau’s tourism recovery beyond its reliance on mainland Chinese visitors.

Retail sector faces mixed outcomes

While the influx of visitors has boosted footfall across Macau, local businesses report varying outcomes in retail spending. Souvenir shops, especially those selling traditional goods, have seen increased sales, with some reporting 20–30 percent more tourists compared to previous years. Saturdays have replaced Sundays as the busiest shopping days, attributed to easier border crossings and Lunar New Year preparations.

However, other retailers noted a shift in spending patterns. Many visitors browse without significant purchases, with fewer tourists carrying shopping bags than pre-pandemic levels. This trend highlights a shift in consumption habits despite the rise in visitor numbers.

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