The gaming concession system in Macao: reform or retain?

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to examine the problems of the concession system that Macao has long-term adopted to regulate its gaming industry and discuss alternatives.Design/methodology/approach Theoretical reflection was used to provide qualitatively different insights about governmental supervision of the gaming industry.Findings Two options for reform are proposed: (1) replace the concession system with a licensing system that does not restrict the number of concessionaires or the period of concession or (2) adopt a modified form of the concession system that changes the number of concessionaires, period of concessions and methods for selecting concessionaires.Practical implications This study’s results have implications for the Macao government and other gaming jurisdictions in Asia.Originality/value This study provides a comprehensive examination of the concession system for governmental supervision of the gaming industry.