Macau Gaming Regulator Confirms Illegal Junkets Operating in the City
The Macau Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ, for its Portuguese acronym) has confirmed the presence of unauthorized junket operations within the city's casinos. This revelation came to light following a series of rigorous inspections conducted by the DICJ, aimed at auditing the activities within casino VIP rooms and midway areas.
The Macau skyline at night. (Source: Getty Images)
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The findings have raised concerns over the adherence to regulatory standards and the enforcement of gambling laws in Macau. The presence of the illegal activity threatens the stability of the city's gaming industry.
Related: Junkets Return to Macau against China's WishesAccording to the DICJ, its inspections were part of a targeted effort to clamp down on illegal activities that undermine the integrity of the gambling sector. Among the illicit practices identified were 'betting under the table' and revenue sharing with unlicensed gaming junkets—activities that are strictly prohibited under Macau's gaming laws. The DICJ's statement, disseminated through its WeChat channel, did not specify the exact number of individuals or entities involved in these unauthorized operations, leaving the scale of the issue ambiguous.
The crackdown on illegal junkets is indicative of a broader shift in Macau's approach to gambling regulation. Historically, junkets played a significant role in the city's gaming economy, facilitating the influx of high-stakes gamblers and credit issuance for betting. However, in recent years, Macau has taken decisive steps to distance itself from these intermediaries.
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The once-thriving junket industry, which boasted nearly 400 operators, has been dramatically downsized, with a current cap set at 30 licensed junkets. This drastic reduction reflects the government's commitment to reforming the gambling landscape and enhancing regulatory oversight.
This move aligns with Macau's strategic pivot towards a more sustainable and regulated gaming environment. The DICJ's ongoing efforts to enforce compliance and deter illegal operations are part of a comprehensive plan to uphold the highest standards of gambling practices. By tightening the reins on junkets, Macau aims to protect the interests of legitimate stakeholders and preserve the reputation of its gaming industry as a fair and lawful enterprise.
The implications of these findings are far-reaching, affecting not only the junket operators but also the broader ecosystem of Macau's gambling sector. Illegal junkets, an increase in the number of suspicious transaction reports, loan-sharking and other illicit activity tied to the industry could force more restrictions and oversight from mainland China and its government.
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