The year 2024 ended in Macau with a visit from China’s leader, President Xi Jinping. The tour coincided with the 25th anniversary of Macau’s handover from Portuguese administration to that of China, meaning the city is at the halfway point of a 50-year period that will see Macau fully-absorbed into the mainland’s governmental system.
The visit was also a reminder of the Communist Party of China’s continued recognition of Macau’s role as the only place in China where casino gambling is legal. Mr Xi mentioned the industry specifically during his time in the city, saying it was developing in an “orderly and healthy manner, in accordance with the law”.
But China’s ongoing campaign against mainland residents engaging in “overseas gambling” showed no sign of abating during the year. Warnings were issued to Chinese citizens by the country’s diplomatic missions within a number of regional casino jurisdictions.
