The Macau Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) has raised alarms over a?significant increase in gambling disorder cases?during the first half of 2024. According to official reports, 108 cases were registered in the central system for gambling-related issues during this period, marking a concerning trend given that 169 cases were recorded for the entirety of 2023.
Breakdown of gambling disorder cases:
The data provided by the Macau government reveals a diverse range of individuals affected by gambling disorders. Among the?108 cases reported, a small percentage (around 1%) involved individuals working?directly as dealers?in the gaming industry. An additional 4.3% of cases were linked to individuals?employed in gambling-related jobs, such as junket collaborators or waiters working in gaming areas. These statistics highlight the reach of?gambling addiction?beyond the general population, affecting even those within the industry.
According to the official data (pdf), the motivations behind gambling behavior show that financial stress?was the primary factor for?24.1%?of those seeking help. Meanwhile,?21%?of individuals reported gambling for entertainment, and?17%?used casino games as a way to alleviate boredom or depression. This variety in motivations underscores the complex nature of gambling addiction and the multiple factors that can lead to problematic behavior.
Baccarat?has emerged as the most addictive game among those seeking help, with 47% of problematic players reporting an addiction to this particular casino game. This percentage is notably higher than other forms of gambling, such as?football and basketball betting, which ranked second. The popularity of baccarat in Macau’s casinos likely contributes to its prominence in addiction cases, making it a focal point for intervention efforts.
Demographics and response strategies:
In terms of demographics, the majority of individuals seeking assistance for gambling disorders fall within the age range of?30 to 39 years. Additionally, 40% of these cases involve?tourists, indicating that gambling addiction in Macau is not confined to local residents but also affects a significant portion of visitors. This insight is crucial for tailoring prevention and treatment efforts, especially in a city known for its thriving tourism and gaming industries.
As Asia Gaming Brief reports, Wu I Mui, head of the Problem Gambling Prevention and Treatment division at the IAS, emphasized the need for enhanced measures to address this growing issue. In response to the rising number of cases, the bureau plans to?intensify its promotion of responsible gambling messages,?particularly in areas frequented by tourists. There are also plans to collaborate with local merchants to raise awareness about available support services for those struggling with gambling addiction.