The gaming concession system in Macao: reform or retain?

Purpose: This study aims to examine the problems of the concession system that Macao has long-term adopted to regulate its gaming industry and discuss alternatives. Design/methodology/approach: Theoretical reflection was used to provide qualitatively different insights about governmental supervision of the gaming industry. Findings: Two options for reform are proposed: (1) replace the concession system with a licensing system that does not restrict the number of concessionaires or the period of concession or (2) adopt a modified form of the concession system that changes the number of concessionaires, period of concessions and methods for selecting concessionaires. Practical implications: This study’s results have implications for the Macao government and other gaming jurisdictions in Asia. Originality/value: This study provides a comprehensive examination of the concession system for governmental supervision of the gaming industry.