Macau is pushing on with its tax incentive policy designed to boost the number of foreign customers visiting the city’s casinos. As part of new regulations announced by the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ), casino concessionaires will be required to create special gaming zones and chips exclusively for overseas patrons.
Casinos Could be Eligible for up to 5% Tax Incentive
Operators that can attract more foreigners to their respective gaming venues could enjoy up to 5% gross gaming revenue (GGR) tax reduction, subject to approval from the Chief Executive. DICJ director Adriane Marques Ho stated during a press conference on December 9 that the main purpose of creating a designated zone for foreigners inside casinos is to determine the amount of revenue generated by overseas visitors.
Andre Cheong Weng Chon, Secretary for Administration and Justice, who was also present during the media briefing, said the tax incentive system will help casino operators mitigate the high costs of bringing more foreign customers to Macau.
New Tax System Kicks In on January 1, 2023
The tax reduction will only be applicable to GGR generated in the special gambling zones. Mr. Ho noted that the DICJ will provide further guidelines for operators as to the conditions that must be fulfilled before admitting a foreign patron into the special zone.
The new regulations will take effect from January 1, 2023.