DICJ still considering applications from 29 junkets
The Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ) has revealed that on top of Macau’s 46 confirmed junket operators, there are 29 operators still waiting for approval to operate in 2022.
Macau.- After reporting that the number of junket licences has fallen from 85 in 2021 to 46 this year, Macau’s Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ) has confirmed that it is still evaluating whether 29 previously licensed junket operators will be allowed to operate.
In 2021, 85 junket operators were licensed by the DICJ, but the list of authorised operators published in the Official Gazette for 2022 showed a drop of almost half to 46. However, the DICJ has now announced that it is still reviewing 29 renewal applications, which it said will be processed in accordance with the law after all the necessary documents have been prepared by the parties concerned.
The gaming promoter licence renewal application period began in September 2021. The number of licences has been falling each year. In 2013 there were 235 junket operators in Macau. The sector has been in crisis following the arrest of Alvin Chau Cheok Wa, CEO of Suncity Group on cross-border gambling and money laundering accusations.
According to the proposed amendments to Macau’s gaming regulatory framework, junket operators will only be allowed to provide services to only one casino operator. Macau’s Legislative Council has approved the first reading of the gaming law amendment bill with just one vote against it.
