On October 16, 2024, the Macau Legislative Assembly took a decisive step in the regulation of gambling activities by unanimously voting in favor of the “Law to Combat Crimes of Illegal Gambling.” This landmark legislation aims to address growing concerns regarding illegal gambling practices within the Special Administrative Region.

The Legislative Process

The bill, which received its second and final reading during a plenary session attended by all 32 legislators, has been in the pipeline since it was first introduced by the government in December of the previous year. Aimed at reforming the existing legal framework governing gambling, the bill underwent scrutiny by a committee led by veteran legislator Chan Chak Mo prior to its approval.

The meticulous legislative process highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring that the regulatory environment surrounding gambling in Macau is robust and comprehensive, thereby safeguarding both public welfare and the integrity of the gaming industry.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The newly approved bill outlines strict regulations targeting illegal gambling and delineates severe penalties against those found violating the law. Among its notable features are:

Targeting the ‘Multiplier’ Practice

A central component of the legislation is a clear prohibition of the “multiplier” practice, which has emerged as a popular yet illegal form of gambling. This operation is perceived as a significant threat to the integrity of existing legal gaming operations and is explicitly labeled as an illegal operation of games of fortune.

Unauthorised Online Gambling and Money Exchange

The bill further criminalizes the operation or promotion of unauthorized online gambling, as well as unlicensed money exchange related to gambling activities. This expansion of definitions aims to capture a broader spectrum of illegal gambling activities, addressing concerns that have long been overlooked.

Enhancements to Penalties

One of the bill’s most significant alterations is the revision of penalties for illegal gambling activities. Where previously, the maximum prison sentence for unlawful gambling was three years, the new legislation expands the range to one to eight years, depending on the severity of the offense. This includes illegal operations involving online games of fortune and mutual betting.

Addressing Specific Challenges

During the discussion surrounding the bill, legislators such as Leong Sun Iok and José Pereira Coutinho shed light on ongoing issues with money touts encroaching the casino environment, creating substantial inconveniences for both staff and visitors.

André Cheong Weng Chon, Secretary for Administration and Justice, emphasized that the government would adopt a broad perspective when investigating illegal money exchange activities, looking beyond casino premises to ensure that such offenses occurring as part of a “trade” activity could also be prosecuted effectively.

Despite overall support for the provisions, Coutinho raised concerns about the practicalities of enforcing the law, particularly where evidence gathering for offenses outside casino boundaries is concerned.

Casinos and Entry Bans

Another major development from the bill is the provision allowing for entry bans to casinos for individuals convicted of various gambling-related offenses. Offenders engaging in illegal operations, extending loans for gambling, or participating in fraudulent activities may find themselves facing limitations that extend across various durations. The inclusion of entry bans is a novel regulatory measure intended to further deter illegal activities within the gaming environment.

Underlying Objectives

The overarching aim of the legislation, as articulated in the government’s accompanying opinion document, is to create a more comprehensive legal framework that is aligned with contemporary societal needs. The bill seeks to enhance the penal protection of legitimate gaming activities that are integral to Macau’s economy. With gambling continuing to be a primary revenue source for the city, there’s a pressing need for regulations that not only deter illegal activities but also bolster the overall structure of the gaming industry.

Conclusion

The final nod from the Macau Legislative Assembly marks a significant advancement in the governance of gambling activities, promising a more stringent regulatory landscape aimed at curtailing illegal operations. As the city continues to navigate the intricate interplay between tourism, revenue generation, and public safety, the newly enacted law stands as a testament to Macau’s commitment to maintaining a sustainable and lawful gaming environment for all stakeholders involved.

In the ever-evolving world of gambling legislation, this bill represents a pivotal step towards ensuring that Macau remains a world-renowned destination for legal and responsible gaming.

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Macau, famously known as the gambling capital of the world, has once again made headlines with the recent passage of its “Illegal Gambling Law.” This legislation, approved almost unanimously by the Macau Legislative Assembly, marks a significant evolution in the region’s regulatory landscape surrounding gaming activities. It is crucial to understand the implications and nuances of this law, especially in the context of recent developments in Macau’s gaming industry.

Legislative Journey

The path to the implementation of the Illegal Gambling Law has been marked by thorough discussions and reviews. Initial voting took place in December of the previous year, and subsequent deliberations spanned eight meetings of the Second Standing Committee. The final vote took place in the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, where the law passed with minimal opposition, showcasing a unified approach toward tightening gaming regulations.

Key Aspects of the Law

Regulation of Illegal Lotteries

A focal point of debate during the legislative process was the law’s treatment of illegal lotteries, particularly regarding the popular Mark Six lottery. Article 8 of the bill introduced restrictions on the sale of Mark Six lottery tickets, imposing a maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment for illegal sales. Lawmaker Ron Lam U Tou raised concerns about the cultural significance of the Mark Six lottery in Macau, arguing that it has become a habitual pastime for many. He suggested that such stringent penalties may be disproportionate given the societal impact of illegal ticket sales.

In response, André Cheong Weng Chon, Secretary for Administration and Justice, emphasized the need for regulation. He argued that the resale of lottery tickets requires a government-issued license and that proper oversight is important to protect vulnerable populations, especially young people, from unregulated gambling practices.

Stringent Penalties for Underground Betting

One of the more impactful provisions of the new law is the strict prohibition of underground betting, often referred to as “betting under the table.” Offenders will now face a maximum penalty of eight years in prison. This move is largely viewed as a response to high-profile cases within the gaming industry, notably the recent trials related to the Suncity Group and Tak Chun Group, which underscored the detrimental effects of illicit gambling practices on the industry as a whole.

Expanded Powers for Law Enforcement

The Illegal Gambling Law also empowers criminal investigation officers with enhanced capabilities to combat illegal gambling activities. Notable additions include provisions for “night-time evidence collection” and “undercover investigations.” These measures are designed to bolster the legal framework and improve the enforcement of existing gaming laws, providing law enforcement with the tools necessary to tackle entrenched illegal gambling networks.

Targeting Money Exchange Gangs

Another significant addition to the new law is the criminalization of money exchange gangs involved in illegal currency exchanges for gambling purposes. Offenders found operating such exchanges face penalties of up to five years in prison. This provision aims to crack down on financial mechanisms that support illegal gambling, further safeguarding the integrity of Macau’s gaming landscape.

Implications for Macau’s Gaming Industry

The enactment of the Illegal Gambling Law represents a broader trend towards tightening regulations on the gambling sector in Macau. Over the past two years, multiple gaming-related laws have been passed, signaling a clear governmental strategy to address and mitigate concerns surrounding illegal gambling activities. The government believes that by enhancing regulatory measures, they can foster a safer and more transparent gaming environment.

In conclusion, Macau’s Illegal Gambling Law is a critical development within the jurisdiction’s evolving legal framework surrounding gaming activities. With stringent penalties, expanded law enforcement powers, and an emphasis on regulation that balances tradition and contemporary concerns, this legislation aims to fortify the integrity of Macau’s gaming industry. As the law takes effect, stakeholders will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how its implementation influences both the legal and illegal gaming landscapes in this bustling metropolis.

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