Macau’s Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a “stable, healthy, and orderly” gaming industry as the transition period for satellite casinos nears its year-end deadline.
Under new regulations, satellite casinos—third-party-owned properties operating under larger concessionaires’ licenses—must shift to a partnership model that limits their revenue to management fees. The rule change follows a three-year adjustment period designed to bring greater regulatory oversight to the sector.
“I have recently noticed public opinion on the matter, and I believe gaming companies are coordinating well with satellite casino operators,” Sam said, pledging government support for affected workers.
Macau currently has 30 casinos, 11 of which operate as satellites, with many affiliated with SJM Holdings. Seven such casinos shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic due to unfavorable business conditions.
Industry analysts estimate that 11,000 to 12,000 employees work in the remaining satellite casinos. Legislator Lei Leong Wong has urged early government intervention to minimize disruptions, warning that any significant downsizing could impact employment and surrounding businesses.
“If satellite casinos halve their operations, it could affect employment as well as the surrounding communities economically,” Lei said.
Gaming operators are still evaluating their next steps. Galaxy Entertainment Group Chairman Francis Lui confirmed that discussions on the future of Waldo Casino, one of its satellite partners employing over 100 workers, are ongoing but remain subject to government approval.
“The group and its partner are still discussing the operation of the Waldo project and the prospects for employees, but we will need to wait for a government decision first,” Lui said.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2025/03/05/96681-macau-39s-satellite-casinos-face-yearend-transition-as-government-pledges-stability
