The region’s concessionaires are set to be decided upon by the end of the year, after Macau extended its current concession period from June 2022 to December 2022. 

This extension period was announced to account for a protracted legal period, in which changes to Macau’s gaming law were ratified for the future.

Soon, though, as we approach the end of 2022, the bidding process to become one of Macau’s concessionaires will take centre stage. 

There are six concession holders in Macau. Current holders are Sands China, Wynn Macau, MGM China, Galaxy Entertainment, SJM Holdings and Melco Resorts. 

Should these operators hope to retain their licence, they will need to rebid by next month to remain in Macau.  

Their offers will be scrutinised by confirmed panel members Cheong Weng Chon, Macau’s Justice Chief, Li Wai Nong, Finance and Economy Chief, Marina Helena de Senna Fernandes, Head of Tourism Board and Adriano Ho, Head of the Gambling Regulator.  

"The bidding committee has the authority to analyse and make decisions on all matters relating to bidding and the granting of contracts," Macau’s Government said on its website. 

Operators in Macau have struggled recently against the backdrop of persistent travel restrictions and Covid-19 lockdown.  

Competitor regions Singapore and the Philippines have, by comparison, seen significant post-pandemic growth after their lockdowns ended. 

Growth in the Philippines was recently discussed at the ASEAN Gaming Summit, which Gambling Insider covered here.