Macau’s gaming industry posted stronger-than-expected gains in February, with gross gaming revenue (GGR) climbing 4.5 percent year-on-year to MOP20.63 billion ($2.56 billion), according to figures released by the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau.
The result exceeded the median analyst estimate of a 1% year-on-year increase, with revenue reaching 81.3% of 2019 pre-pandemic levels. The world’s biggest gambling hub benefited from a tourism boost during the month, tied to the nine-day Lunar New Year holiday in mainland China from February 15 to 23. The Chinese New Year holiday fell on February 17 this year.
Preliminary data showed more than 6.69 million border-crossing trips during the 10-day Spring Festival period from February 14 to 23, with inbound visitors accounting for 1.7 million.
Authorities and operators ramped up entertainment offerings, including parades, drone and firework shows, markets, and concerts to draw tourists and encourage spending.
Despite the annual increase, February revenue declined 8.9% from January’s MOP22.63 billion.
Still, the first two months of 2026 together delivered MOP43.26 billion in gaming revenue, up 13.9% from the same period last year, underscoring continued recovery momentum in the market.
Macau’s casino operators continue to face margin pressure amid intense competition for mass-market players, which has pushed up operating costs as companies offer more perks and incentives.
The industry has also been reshaped by China’s crackdown on high rollers, which reduced the VIP segment that previously accounted for about half of gaming income. Most junket operators have ceased operations following gaming law revisions that rendered their business model unviable.
Looking ahead, broader economic pressures in China, including a property market slump, high youth unemployment, and global trade conflicts, may limit room for further growth.
Reining in costs while still maintaining their appeal to gamblers will be one of the key challenges for casino operators this year.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2026/03/02/117847-macau-february-casino-revenue-rises-45-to-256-billion
