Macau lawmaker pushes for new ‘1+4’ plan amid iGaming slowdown
Macau lawmaker Ngan Iek Hang is advocating for increased investment in non-gaming industries as the region nears the end of its three-year transition for satellite casinos under the new gaming law. He has urged the government to accelerate the “1+4” diversification initiative, which aims to lessen Macau’s dependence on gaming by expanding sectors like health sector, infrastructure, tech sector, and mega conventions/exhibitions.
The appeal comes amid concerns over the uneven economic recovery, with non-gaming industries struggling to match the robust performance of the gambling sector. Authorities are now assessing the contributions of gaming operators in diversifying the region’s economy.
Widespread shop closures and a cautious hiring climate have left the job market constrained, with businesses favouring adaptable and multi-skilled employees. Furthermore, Macau’s Statistics and Census Service reported just 253 job vacancies within the gaming industry in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Shaky trends on display
Macau’s gaming industry has experienced fluctuations recently. In January 2025, gaming revenue declined by 5.6 percent, missing analyst expectations and highlighting concerns about China’s weak consumer sentiment.
However, February 2025 saw a 6.8 percent increase in gaming revenue, surpassing forecasts and suggesting a potential easing of the slowdown. Regarding tariff threats, there is no direct threat to Macau’s gaming market as of now even as US President Donald Trump has directed investment restrictions on “foreign adversaries” including Macau, Hong Kong and Mainland China. Also, the rising economic risks and intensifying competition between U.S-China challenges Macau’s gaming sector.
Despite government efforts to foster a “1+4” industrial structure, anchored by tourism with four emerging industries, gambling remains the backbone of the economy. The sector employs 18.9 percent of Macau’s workforce and significantly influences hospitality, catering, and entertainment businesses.
Ngan has stressed the need for integrated tourism and leisure enterprises to enhance their non-gaming initiatives. This move would support broader industrial development, expand job opportunities, facilitate re-employment, and rejuvenate local business districts. By doing so, Macau could establish a more resilient and diversified economy beyond its reliance on casino revenues.
Diversify beyond gaming jobs
To ensure meaningful progress, Ngan has urged the government to assess how well gaming operators are fulfilling their commitments to economic diversification. He has also called for more skill-based, non-gaming jobs and training programmes to help local residents transition into new roles.
Another key concern for Ngan is how the government plans to incentivise gaming operators to prioritise local procurement and bolster local businesses through strategic partnerships. He is seeking clarity on initiatives designed to leverage the influence of Macau’s major gaming companies to support the broader economy.
As part of their non-gaming commitments under the new 10-year gaming concessions, Macau’s six licensed operators have been assigned to revitalise six historic districts: Lai Chi Vun Shipyard, Rua da Felicidade, the A-Ma area, Inner Harbour Piers 23 and 25, Avenida do Almeida Ribeiro, and Rua de Cinco de Outubro.
With Macau’s reliance on gaming still prevalent, authorities and operators face the challenge of ensuring that diversification efforts lead to substantial, sustainable growth in the region’s economy.
