Macau's gaming regulator has rejected a proposal by legislator Chan Hao Weng to revise junket regulation. In a written response dated 12 August, acting director Lio Chi Chong stated that operators and licensed promoters do not compete with each other.
Under Macau law, junkets may work with only one concessionaire, do not share casino revenue, and cannot conduct gaming directly. They bring in players and provide transport, accommodation, meals and entertainment in exchange for a commission from operators. "Promoters only help concessionaires attract players. Their roles do not overlap, there is no competition," Lio said.
Chan argued that the expansion of VIP services under direct casino management has narrowed junkets' client channels and created unequal conditions. As of July, 29 licensed junkets operated in Macau — 58% of the cap of 50 licences set for 2027. Chan proposed abolishing the exclusivity requirement and lowering the 5% tax on commissions.
Since January 2023, junket commissions have been capped at 1.25% of net chip turnover, with any payments from concessionaires or related companies counted within that limit. Commission income is taxed at 5% with no relief.
Lio defended the current system, calling exclusivity and the ban on revenue sharing core principles that let junkets focus on bringing in players and prevent "excessive and chaotic expansion". DICJ will continue monitoring the industry but made no commitment to revise taxes or exclusivity rules.
