Inside Asian Gaming

IAG MAR 2020年3月 亞博匯 64 COLUMNISTS permitted in the following categories: (i) sports betting on soccer and basketball; and (ii) horse race betting. WHAT’S THE WAY FORWARD? Discussion and preparation for the term of the current gaming concessions (set to expire in 2022 unless exceptionally extended) is already underway, paving the way for what is expected to be the brick- and-mortar market in the near future. Why not add to those discussions the possibility of regulating the offer of online gaming operations in Macau? And why not further consider allowing the incumbent sports betting operator to expand its activities by offering a myriad of new sporting possibilities (tennis, racing events, volleyball). Such discussions could also revisit the current prohibition of gaming concessionaires running online operations. Why not allow them to operate online or crossover environment operations? The first draft version of Macau Gaming Law foresaw a preemption right for land-based concessionaires to run such operations. Provided adequate consideration is given to the interests of Macau and its residents, why not? If there is one thing we must draw from the current reality it is that Macau should prepare its economy and society to face disruptive events, such as COVID-19. That will take a collective effort, and an honest debate, between regulator and operators and between the Macau government and Beijing. We must all think outside the box and that means looking beyond bricks-and-mortar. Macau has created the most successful land-based gaming market in the world. It may do the same online. Macau Authorities should not render meaningless Section 4 of Macau Gaming Law. Debate should be fostered – and not limited – in focused events, following which authorities should take an actual stand and put the idea to Macau residents. Online gaming may not be the cure to Macau’s economic dependency but it sure could be a strong palliative.