Macau considers limited exceptions to planned gambling ad ban

Authorities are considering exemptions for gaming equipment promotions at trade fairs.

Macau.- The Macau government is weighing limited exemptions to its planned ban on gambling advertising. A summary report after a 10-day public consultation suggests that the government may amend the proposal to allow promotional activities for gaming equipment and industry exhibitions

Meanwhile, the Executive Council has said it has finalised the draft bill, which will be submitted to the Legislative Assembly for review. Under existing rules, only gaming concessionaires may promote gambling-related activities, and solely within the designated casino areas. The draft legislation retains that restriction while introducing an explicit ban on all other forms of gambling advertising.

However, officials acknowledged industry feedback that said certain businesses require limited promotional space, such as advertising on their own websites, within venues, or at professional events. “Some entities also regularly organise conferences and exhibitions related to gaming equipment,” the report noted, recommending that specific exemptions be introduced “to allow necessary industry promotions under such circumstances.”

Authorities clarified that responsible gambling campaigns, problem gambling counselling, and raffles or lucky draws will not be classified as gambling ads and will therefore remain outside the ban’s scope. Beyond gaming, the draft bill also modernises advertising oversight by introducing new provisions for celebrity endorsements and online advertising.

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Authorities are considering exemptions for gaming equipment promotions at trade fairs. Macau.- The Macau government is weighing limited exemptions to its planned ban on gambling advertising. A summary report after…