Macau Slot is under scrutiny as its lottery operations concession nears expiration. Local authorities have issued a clear directive: prioritise local employment or risk losing the licence. This move aims to ensure job stability for Macau residents, addressing the significant presence of foreign labour in the gaming workforce. The government is starting this initiative with Macau’s leading betting operator.
The employment landscape in Macau
Operational, technical, and administrative positions have long been filled by foreign workers in Macau’s 바카라 and hospitality sectors. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, highlighted the dangers of relying too heavily on foreign labour. There is growing pressure to promote local employment and lessen reliance on foreign workers as the economy recovers.
Macau Slot reports that 15 percent of its workforce consists of foreign hires, primarily in entry-level and mid-tier support roles. While this percentage may seem small, the government views it as a symbolic issue that needs correction to prioritise local employment.
Government’s labour localisation policy
The government’s mandate that local employment be prioritised is a condition of Macau Slot’s licence renewal. This is consistent with long-standing policies that encourage local employment in privileged sectors. Macau Slot has made a public commitment to adhere to this rule and has presented local employment as a “corporate responsibility.”
Macau Slot, once the exclusive operator in Macau’s sports betting scene, saw its monopoly revoked in June 2021. The government renewed its concession for three years but without exclusivity. After an initial extension, the company’s licence expired in June 2025, leading to critical negotiations.
The 2026 labour reduction commitment
Macau Slot has committed to reducing its non-professional, non-local workforce by 35 percent, or about 26 positions, by Q1 2026. This reduction will be phased to maintain operational continuity and ensure proper talent transfer. While the loss of experienced foreign staff may slow processes, the company plans to train local employees to step up efficiently.
Prioritising local hires in Macau brings significant socioeconomic benefits by keeping more money within the region, which boosts household incomes and community well-being. Post-pandemic, revitalising the job market through local employment opportunities is crucial for reducing unemployment. Additionally, a locally anchored workforce enhances economic stability, making the system less vulnerable to external labour disruptions.
The strategy used by Macau Slot might serve as a model for other gambling firms. If it works, other concession holders may be compelled or urged to give local jobs priority. This action makes it abundantly clear to foreign operators that Macau places a high value on local employment.
Locals welcome job prospects but are cautiously optimistic about how quickly things will change. Macau Slot’s response has been commended by officials, who also emphasised that future negotiations will prioritise local hiring.
