Macau Tourist Arrivals Hit New Single Day Post-Pandemic High of 219,000

Macau witnessed a surge in tourist arrivals during the Chinese New Year (CNY) celebrations, with the third day setting a new record high for single-day entries. According to Public Security Police (PSP) records, Macau checkpoints saw 219,000 inbound visitors. The same day in 2024 held the previous record of 217,000.

This influx underscores Macau's return to pre-pandemic travel activity. The positive trajectory is expected to continue, driven by relaxed visa policies and festivities to draw in consumers from Mainland China.

The Official Data

PSP reports indicate that checkpoints processed 736,000 crossings by February 1^st, five days into the eight-day Chinese New Year festivities. However, the total entries during the first five days are 8.6% lower than the same period in 2024 due to low numbers earlier in the week. The CNY celebrations kicked off with 78,000 arrivals on January 28^th, rising to 131,000 on the 29^th. Arrivals rose to 172,000 on January 30^th before reaching a record high on the 31^st. February 1^st also saw significant visits, surpassing the 218,000 mark.

Most arrivals came through The Border Gate (39.6%), Hengqin Port (23.4%), and Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (17.1%). Mainland China tourists accounted for 76.2% of entries, followed by Hong Kong at 18.1%. 1.3% of visitors were from Taiwan, while 4.4% were international travelers.

Key Driving Policies

The boom in tourist numbers is attributed to the revised visa policies that enhance cross-border travel. Zhuhai and Hengqin residents enjoy "multiple entry" and "one trip per week" entry basis under the revisions. This policy replaces the previous Individual Visit Scheme (IVS), which permitted only one visit every two months.

Festive attractions also contribute to the increase, and the CNY is among China's most significant long holidays. Macau arrivals traditionally rise significantly during this period. The same happens for other popular holidays like the Chinese Golden Week.

Cautious Optimism Persists

Industry experts have their eyes peeled for the impact of the CNY tourism boom on Macau's post-pandemic recovery. Expectations remain varied, considering January's gross gaming revenue (GGR) dipped by 5.6% year-on-year.

Forecasts for February's performance are also varied. Predictions are set at MOP800 million (US$98.3 million) to MOP850 million (US$104.5 million) GGR for the first nine days of the month. This would reflect a 2.7% year-on-year growth for January and February.