Macau’s monopoly not about to end any time soon

 
Concerns briefly surfaced this week that Macau’s monopoly on casino gambling within China could be eroding. At Jesters Casino Bar in Mangrove Tree Resort World in Sanya on Hainan island, customers could buy tickets to bet from US $3.21 to $16,000.  Winnings were delivered in Mangrove Points, which could then be used towards accommodation or to buy luxury goods and art at retail outlets within the resort. Beijing officials denied that Macau’s monopoly was under challenge and the casino bar was subsequently reported to have been closed by local authorities pending an investigation, with Sanya authorities claiming that no form of gambling had ever been allowed.