Macau May Start Paying Foreign Tourists to Visit

China's economy, particularly in Macau, is gradually recovering from the significant restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2023 Lunar New Year marked the most successful period for the enclave's casinos in recent years, and the region is eager to build on this momentum by attracting a broader range of leisure and business travelers.
According to GGRAsia, the Macau Government Tourism Office is seriously considering a plan to subsidize group tours for foreign visitors. This initiative would involve providing small cash incentives for one or two nights to travelers arriving from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and other regions, excluding mainland China.
Currently, the proposal includes offering approximately $43.30 (around 3,100 rubles) per traveler for one night, or $61.90 (about 4,400 rubles) for a two-night stay. However, these subsidies would not apply to the third night or any subsequent nights. For example, if a couple travels together and stays in Macau for two nights, the total subsidy would amount to around $124 (nearly 8,900 rubles).
A similar subsidy program is already in place for tourists from mainland China, where each group traveler receives $31 (approximately 2,200 rubles) for one night of accommodation. This program was suspended for over three years due to the pandemic but resumed on Tuesday.
To qualify as a tourist group in Macau, there must be a minimum of ten individuals traveling on the same itinerary.
It's worth noting that the effective gaming tax rate for Macau casinos in 2023 stands at 40%. However, establishments that actively attract foreign visitors may benefit from more favorable tax conditions, allowing them to pay 5% less. Consequently, gaming areas designated exclusively for international tourists can apply to the Macau government for tax incentives at the end of the year.
Meanwhile, Evolution Group is set to showcase new online games from its brands at the ICE London 2023 exhibition.