The number of registered problem gamblers in Macau hit a record high in 2024, according to government data released by the Social Welfare Bureau, underscoring growing concerns over gambling addiction in the world’s largest casino hub.
A total of 208 individuals were officially identified as compulsive gamblers last year, marking a 23% increase from 169 cases in 2023. The figure is the highest since records began in 2011.
Despite the rise in total cases, the proportion of local residents among the addicted population fell to 58.65%, a 5.7% drop from the previous year. In contrast, the share of non-local gamblers grew from 30.77% to 41.35%, with mainland Chinese tourists accounting for 32.7% of those cases. Individuals holding Macau “blue cards” made up 4.33% of the total.
Problem gamblers were spread across age groups, though the 30 to 39-year-old bracket represented the largest share at 23.56%, followed by those aged 18 to 29 at 13.94%. The youngest reported case was 16 years old, and the oldest was 77, with an average age of 40.37.
When asked about motivations, nearly a quarter (24%) said they gambled to cope with financial difficulties. Others cited entertainment (19.71%), relief from boredom or stress (18.76%), and the thrill of gambling (17.34%).
The government is particularly focused on curbing gambling among youth, which surged to 28.92% during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Authorities aimed to raise awareness and ‘a correct value system’ through schools, according to Wu I Mui, head of the Social Welfare Bureau’s division for problem gambling prevention and treatment.
In a move to promote responsible gambling, the Macao Federation of Trade Unions and casino operator MGM will launch a campaign from September to November. The initiative will include training programs, a carnival, and community activities, aiming to reach approximately 4,000 people.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2025/04/15/101547-macau-reports-record-high-in-problem-gambling-cases-in-2024
