In an unprecedented move, 2024 heralds the "first time" Macau's casino industry has engaged in self-reporting regarding alleged bribery by third parties targeting casino-resort employees. This significant development is outlined in the annual report released by Macau’s Commission Against Corruption (CCAC). This step, labeled as a "good start," marks a new chapter in transparency for the sector. The Commission's annual report elaborates on two notable incidents it scrutinized, with findings subsequently routed to the city’s Public Prosecutions Office within the same year. Although the report refrains from naming specific casino operators involved in the self-reporting, it underscores the collaborative effort to curb corruption within the industry.
Highlighting Key Investigations of 2024
The first case explored in the report centers on a former head chef at a casino resort. This individual allegedly procured MOP240,000 (roughly US$29,686) in return for endorsing the employment and continued engagement of five resort workers from September 2020 to February 2023. Another case revolves around a person previously in charge of recruitment for a casino resort operator’s stewarding department. This personnel allegedly facilitated the employment of multiple individuals from mainland China.
These recruits reportedly paid "introduction fees" to the recruiter's girlfriend and an outside agent. The girlfriend charged between CNY15,000 (approximately US$2,087) to CNY25,000 for each job seeker, while the third-party intermediary obtained CNY1,000 from each individual successfully recruited. Both cases represent alleged breaches of Macau’s Law No. 19/2009, which pertains to the Prevention and Suppression of Bribery in the Private Sector, as noted by the anti-graft body.
Wider Context of CCAC's Anti-Corruption Efforts
Beyond these individual incidents, the CCAC's report for 2024 showcases broader anti-corruption endeavors across the city. The agency completed investigations into 91 cases for the year—60 involving the public sector and 31 concerning the private sector. Out of these, 19 cases were handed over to the Public Prosecutions Office for further action. Such self-disclosure and reporting protocols by the casino sectors indicate a shift towards more proactive measures in combating corruption. It points to a growing awareness and response among casino operators towards maintaining ethical standards and regulatory compliances. The movement towards transparency and self-accountability is envisioned as a crucial step for further integrity within Macau’s thriving casino economy.
Source: Macau anti-graft body's annual report says 2024 a landmark for self-reporting by casino ops, GGRAsia, June 11, 2025.
Posted by Wizard
Jun 11 2025
Jun 11 2025
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