Weekend Conversation Corner – July, 25
Welcome to the most recent edition of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we take a brief look at the major headlines of the week that have captured the world’s interest. As we break down the flurry of events into a concise summary, we will discuss the key stories that have influenced the narrative, impacted policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the clutter and provide a condensed review of the week’s significant developments, keeping you informed about what really counts in today’s fast-paced world. Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep gaming on. Have a fantastic weekend!
Macau visitor arrivals up nearly 15% year-on-year
In the first half of 2025, Macau saw a 14.9% increase in visitor arrivals, totaling 19.22 million. Same-day visitors rose by 25.8%, while overnight visitors increased by 2.6%. The average length of stay decreased slightly to 1.1 days due to more same-day visitors. Mainland Chinese visitors grew by 19.3%, with a significant rise in those under the Individual Visit Scheme. Visitors from the Greater Bay Area and other regions also saw increases. International visitors totaled 1.34 million, with notable growth from the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. By checkpoint, land arrivals increased by 20.4%, while sea and air arrivals dropped. In June 2025, visitor arrivals rose by 13.3%, with same-day and overnight visitors increasing. The average length of stay remained stable at 1.2 days.
Philippine IRs report US$1.65bn in GGR for the first half of 2025
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) reported that Integrated Resort (IR) casinos in the Philippines generated PHP93.36bn in gross gaming revenues in the first half of 2025. Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco highlighted the significant contributions of these venues to the local gaming industry, accounting for nearly half of the total GGR. He also mentioned that PHP16bn was paid to PAGCOR as license fees. Tengco emphasized the importance of responsible management in the gaming industry and discussed PAGCOR’s efforts to regulate gaming advertising and combat illegal operations. In the first quarter, the Philippines saw a record GGR of PHP104.12bn, with the e-games and e-bingo segment leading in revenue generation. Overall, the gaming industry in the Philippines continues to thrive and contribute significantly to the economy.
Malaysia moves to modernise gambling laws
The Royal Malaysian Police have proposed 12 amendments to modernize the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953 and the Betting Act 1953 to address challenges posed by remote gambling in the digital era. The changes include introducing “remote gambling” into legal terms, increasing penalties for players and operators, and granting new powers to enforcement bodies like the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission. These reforms aim to enhance enforcement against illegal gambling activities, with over 4,200 website blocking requests submitted between 2021 and May 2025. Operation Dadu, a crackdown on illegal gambling, has resulted in thousands of raids and arrests since its launch in 2019.
Over 50.000 jobs at risk if online gaming is banned in the Philippines, media report
A survey in the Philippines revealed that over 50,000 jobs could be lost if online gaming is banned, as licensed platforms contribute significantly to the national economy. Legal expert Tonet Quiogue emphasized the importance of regulating licensed operators to combat illegal gambling. A study of 1,250 online players showed that most oppose a ban, citing safety and legitimacy as their top priorities. Vice President Sara Duterte supports a ban due to concerns about accessibility and financial losses, while finance secretary Ralph Recto suggests raising taxes and tightening regulations instead. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has proposed stricter restrictions without a complete ban. Overall, the debate in the Philippines revolves around the impact of online gambling on the economy and society.
Macau to maintain cap on junket operators for 2026
In May 2025, Macau had only 29 licensed junkets out of a maximum of 50 allowed by the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau. The city’s gaming law sets limits on the number of junkets each casino operator can work with, with Sands China and SJM Holdings having the largest allocations of 12 junkets each. Since January 2023, junkets have been restricted from sharing in casino revenue and are limited to a 1.25% commission on rolling turnover. Additionally, they are now prohibited from issuing gambling credit as of August 2024. The cap on casino junket operators for 2026 will remain at 50, the same as the previous year, as determined by the Secretary for Economy and Finance in Macau.
Philippine VP Sara Duterte backs calls for ban on online gambling
The Philippines’ Vice President Sara Duterte expressed concerns about the negative impact of online gambling, stating that it leads to financial losses and family debt due to its easy accessibility. She emphasized the lack of parental control over children’s internet use and the destructive effects on families and youth. Duterte’s stance aligns with proposed bills in Congress, including the “Kontra E-Sugal Bill” and the Anti-Online Gambling Act of 2025. Senators like Juan Miguel Zubiri, Risa Hontiveros, and Sherwin Gatchalian are also advocating for bans or stricter regulations on online gambling to address its public health implications. Duterte’s remarks reflect a growing movement in the Philippines to curb online gambling activities.
Philippine finance secretary proposes tax hike rather than online gambling ban
In the Philippines, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto advocates for stricter taxation and regulation of online gambling operators instead of a ban. He believes this approach will increase state revenue, enhance transparency, and provide oversight in a sector largely controlled by illegal operators. Recto suggests a 10% tax increase could generate PHP20bn annually, in addition to existing taxes collected by PAGCOR. He warns that banning online gambling would lead to illegal activities and revenue loss. Recto proposes mandatory stock exchange listings for operators, national ID verification, a minimum gambling age of 21, and addiction warning labels. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is expected to announce policy decisions on online gambling during his upcoming address.
