Will junkets benefit from Macau database of excluded gamblers?

Macau’s government plans to create an online database of individuals barred from setting foot on a casino gaming floor, potentially opening the door to junket operators’ long-sought list of bad credit risks.

On Tuesday, Macau Business reported that the Legislative Assembly committee tasked with amending casino entry regulations had been told by the government that “an online platform with password access” will replace the current system of issuing confidential letters to gaming operators detailing who is to be denied entry to casino floors.

The government clarified that the database will only contain names of individuals who have been barred from casino access through judicial decisions or who have requested self-exclusion. The database won’t include information on casino staff, who will be automatically excluded once the legislation is approved.

Macau’s Office for Personal Data Protection is said to have okayed the new database, provided the listed individuals are notified of their inclusion. It’s unclear precisely what identifying data will be included on the list., but work on the bill will resume in October when the legislature reconvenes after its fall break.