Macau grows by another 62 per cent

2008-04-17 15:16:02

China's gambling resort of Macau has grown by a further 62 per cent during 2008's first quarter compared to the previous year, it has been revealed.

Macauhub reports that the city, which is already the richest gaming destination in the world by a considerable margin, generated revenue in the region of $3.76 billion during the period, according to the latest figures from the region's Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau.

Casinos in the former Portuguese colony, which re-joined China in 1999, are now close to making more money than the whole of Nevada's gaming industry combined.

Macau's gambling industry has been significantly boosted in recent years by heavy investment from some of the biggest casino operators on the planet.

These include James Packer's Crown Casinos, Las Vegas Sands, MGM Mirage and Wynn Resorts, all of which own property in the area.

Most of Macau's revenue comes from high-rolling baccarat players.