Macau's casino industry recorded its first year-over-year monthly decline of 2026 in June, as gross gaming revenue (GGR) fell to MOP18.52bn, down 12.1% from the same month last year, according to figures released by the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ).
The June result brought total GGR for the first half of the year to MOP126.9bn, representing a 6.8% increase compared with the same period in 2025. Earlier months had delivered solid growth, led by January's 24% increase, helping offset the recent slowdown.
Industry observers have linked the softer performance to the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026. Analysts believe the tournament has temporarily diverted part of consumers' gaming budgets away from Macau casinos and toward sports betting markets. With the expanded competition featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, the event is expected to have a greater impact on gaming spending than previous editions.
Despite the temporary weakness, expectations remain positive for the second half of the year. A series of concerts and major sporting events, including the NBA China Games featuring the Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks, are expected to attract additional visitors and stimulate both tourism and gaming activity after the World Cup concludes in mid-July.
Alongside market performance, responsible gaming continues to be a focus in Macau. Gambling counseling services handled 1,254 cases during the first five months of 2026, a 17% increase from the same period last year, with nearly one-third involving individuals aged 35 or younger. The figures have renewed attention on financial pressures and youth exposure to gambling.
Earlier this month, Macau launched a new three-year responsible gaming campaign under the theme "Know Responsible Gaming, Protect Every Moment of Enjoyment." Organized jointly by the Social Welfare Bureau, DICJ, and the University of Macau's Institute for the Study of Commercial Gaming, the initiative aims to further strengthen public education as awareness of responsible gaming continues to improve across the city.
Macau's gaming regulator reported that gross gaming revenue reached MOP126.9bn during the first six months of 2026, keeping the market on track for annual growth despite a softer June
