Macau to Shut Down 11 Satellite Casinos in Economic Diversification Push

Macau will close 11 satellite casinos* by the end of 2025 as part of a broader government initiative to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on gambling revenue, according to Gambling News.

The decision affects some of the city’s most prominent operators. Seven of the casinos set to close are currently running under the license of SJM Holdings. However, the company has announced it will take over two of its remaining satellite properties — Ponte 16 and L’Arc Macau — and bring them under direct management.

Melco Resorts & Entertainment also confirmed it will shutter Grand Dragon Casino, along with three of its Mocha Club slot halls: Mocha Hotel Royal, Mocha Kuong Fat, and Mocha Grand Dragon Hotel. Galaxy Entertainment Group will close Waldo Casino, citing “commercial considerations.”

Macau’s Secretary for Economy and Finance, Tai Kin Ip, noted that roughly 5,600 locals are employed at the satellite venues, 4,800 of whom are directly contracted by Macau’s licensed casino concessionaires.

According to statements from the companies, affected workers will be reassigned to jobs at core properties, and existing gaming equipment — including tables and slot machines — will also be relocated.

Industry analysts say the redistribution of slots should help offset the added costs of employing the roughly 800 staff members previously contracted through satellite operators. According to CLSA, this consolidation may even result in improved table yields for companies like Galaxy and Melco.

*Satellite casinos in Macau are smaller gaming venues that operate under the license of one of Macau’s six major casino concessionaires but are often managed or owned by third-party entities.