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    Macau hits the brakes on illegal gaming with new law

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    New illegal gaming law brings stricter regulations on online gaming, lottery exploitation and loads for gambling.

    Gaming regulations play an important role in the way the online gaming industry operates in different regions.

    For online casino players, gaming regulations can minimise the threat of illegal gaming and create a safer gambling environment where accounts and interests are protected.

    Things are getting interesting in Macau with the newly passed illegal gaming law, which applies to illegal activities in and out of casinos.

    New legislation

    You probably know that gambling regulations in China and the region are pretty severe. With the new illegal gaming law come stricter regulations that criminalise illegal currency exchanges and add penalties to any side or parallel betting.

    Macau’s Legislative Assembly (AL) unanimously approved the new legislation. It’s a new era for gambling in Macau, and we are seeing new developments in terms of gaming regulations. Especially considering that the law helps revise regulations implemented 20 years ago.

    The new legal framework aims to enhance the administrative powers in the region and their attempts to tackle gambling crimes. It’s a necessary change, as updates are required to clean up the industry and help implement better criminal investigation processes.

    With the new law, stricter measures are introduced in an attempt to combat any sort of illegal gambling activity inside and outside of casinos. Some specific provisions target parallel and side betting, making it a focus for the authorities to cut any illegal practices within the industry.

    What is parallel betting?

    This is when you make unauthorised bets that can be quite large and have a GGR that can’t be taxed. It refers to these types of bets based on the outcomes of games found on the site of licensed casinos.

    While most online gaming activities stay the same as before the legislation, the law has been updated to fit the recent developments and changes within the iGambling industry.

    One big change is that illegal currency exchanges for gambling are not allowed, and measures will be taken to punish those caught in the act. With this amendment, the aim is to tighten control on money-related crimes while avoiding making casino visitors a direct target.

    We’ll also see stricter rules being implemented to regulate loans used for gambling purposes. Not to mention that the law addresses the exploitation of lotteries, including foreign lotteries. Heavy punishments are implemented, including a potential of two years in prison.

    The new law is exactly what is needed to raise the penalty framework for all crimes associated with illegal casinos and gambling. It can lead to improving penal and procedural norms to optimise penalties on all crimes, including accessory penalties.

    According to the new legislation, the maximum penalty for illegal activity will be increased from three years in prison to eight years. Any person who participates in illegal gambling operations in any type of way will face a prison sentence of up to three years.

    Possible concerns

    The law has been widely accepted, receiving very little opposition. That being said, it doesn’t go without some concern. Lawmaker Ron Lam has expressed his concerns regarding the sale of the Hong Kong Lottery (Mark 6) in Macau. He urges the government to make clear its position in terms of this matter. Stating that there could be some vagueness regarding the legalities.

    In response, the Secretary for Administration and Justice, Andre Cheong, has clarified that the law aims to target the commercial exploitation of lotteries rather than any casual transactions among individuals.

    Seeing new developments in gambling regulations is generally a positive sign. This means the authorities or regulatory bodies prioritise player safety and adapt policies to meet current requirements.

    Still, if you are not planning a trip to Macau soon or are eager to explore alternatives, there's a long list of top international casinos you can play safely and enjoy!

    Leave us a review on Trustpilot!

    Published: December 11, 2024

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    Deni avatar image

    Article by Deni

    CasinoWow Contributor

    Hi, I’m Deni and I am here to ensure you have all the information you need to make informed decisions about online casinos and games and, of course, have fun while doing it. I do so through in-depth research and a keen eye for detail resulting in comprehensive reviews and engaging articles. Let’s explore the iGaming world together!

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