Macao is deepening its strategy to diversify its economy beyond gambling while simultaneously tightening oversight of casino operations. On 16 July 2026, authorities announced three complementary measures; the expansion of the casino-backed community shuttle programme to encourage non-gaming tourism, the release of first-half crime statistics showing a decline in gaming-related offences, and a new regulatory initiative to combat the illegal livestreaming of gambling sessions inside casinos.
The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), directed by Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, confirmed that the Leisure Bus 2.0 programme will expand from 10 to 14 routes beginning 17 July, linking 10 community districts with Macao's integrated resorts through free shuttle services funded by the city's six gaming concessionaires: Sands China, Galaxy Entertainment Group, MGM China, Melco Resorts & Entertainment, Wynn Macau and SJM Resorts.
The programme, scheduled to run until 3 January 2027, forms part of the government's "Tourism + Community" strategy promoted by Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai, aimed at directing more visitors toward local businesses, cultural attractions and neighborhood commerce rather than concentrating on spending exclusively inside casino resorts.
On the same day, Secretary for Security Wong Sio Chak reported that Macao recorded 1,278 gaming-related crimes during the first half of 2026, representing a 5.2% decline compared with the same period last year despite continued growth in visitor arrivals. The cases mainly involved illegal money exchange, loan sharking, fraud, theft and other gambling-related offences. Authorities attributed the improvement to stronger coordination between law enforcement agencies and casino operators, as well as enhanced preventive measures inside gaming venues.
Lio Chi Chong
Meanwhile, the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ), led by Director Lio Chi Chong, convened senior representatives from the six concessionaires to address the growing problem of illegal livestreaming of gambling sessions from inside casinos. According to the regulator, hidden mobile-phone broadcasts are increasingly being used to facilitate proxy betting and other unlawful gambling activities.
During the meeting, operators presented measures including enhanced surveillance systems, increased security patrols, staff training, identification protocols and reporting mechanisms. The DICJ reaffirmed its close cooperation with the Judiciary Police (PJ) through intelligence sharing and joint enforcement operations, stressing that preventing illegal tele-gambling has become a priority for protecting the integrity, security and international reputation of Macao's gaming industry.
