Story perspectives

Macau Unveils Five-Year Plan to Cut Casino Dependence

8/20/2026

Summary

Macau Cuts Casino Reliance

Macau unveiled a five-year blueprint to cut casino reliance by expanding modern finance, digital currency and mainland China integration.
The plan aims for non-gaming sectors to reach about 60 % of GDP by 2030.
Gaming produced MOP$67.9 billion (US$8.4 billion), over 80 % of public revenue in the first seven months.
Four flagship projects, a new fund and legislation for the e-MOP digital currency will target finance, healthcare, technology and conventions.

Summary

Macau Renewal Plan

A 40-day public consultation (May 20-June 28) informed the final urban renewal plan.
The plan protects the UNESCO Ruins of St. Paul’s and refurbishes Iao Hon’s dilapidated blocks.
Sam Hou Fai said the plan reflects Macau’s executive-led governance with legislative and judicial coordination.
Macau will align the plan with China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and expand its service platform for Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking markets.

History

Historical Context

After the 20 December 1999 handover, Macau liberalised casino licences, attracting firms like Sands China, which earned US$5.5 billion in 2002—about 85 % of fiscal revenue. The economy’s gaming share later peaked above 60 % of GDP, prompting the current five-year plan to raise non-gaming output to 60 % and align with China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, linking the Macau government and UNESCO heritage goals.

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Macau Cuts Casino Reliance

Macau unveiled a five-year blueprint to cut casino reliance by expanding modern finance, digital currency and mainland China integration.
The plan aims for non-gaming sectors to reach about 60 % of GDP by 2030.
Gaming produced MOP$67.9 billion (US$8.4 billion), over 80 % of public revenue in the first seven months.
Four flagship projects, a new fund and legislation for the e-MOP digital currency will target finance, healthcare, technology and conventions.

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