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Author: Nuno Sardinha da Mata, Senior Partner

Trough the publication of Law 5/2025, which entered into effect on February 2026, Macau implemented sweeping changes to its tourism and travel agency legislation, aiming to enhance consumer protection, elevate service standards, and curb exploitative practices.

Key Legal Shifts:

• End of “Zero-Fare” Tours: It is now illegal to promote tour packages below actual cost, targeting misleading pricing strategies.
• Licensing Streamlined: The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) centralizes oversight, easing access for new operators while enforcing clearer compliance rules.
• Local Agency Requirement: Tours organized abroad must be managed by local Macau agencies, strengthening domestic accountability.
• Tour Guide Oversight: Foreign-language guides are permitted, but must be licensed; technical directors must reside locally and meet rigorous qualification benchmarks.
• Minimum Premises Standards: Licensed agencies must operate from independent commercial locations with defined service areas and a minimum size of 40m².

Points of Attention for Existing Operators

Many established agencies may be unaware of the operational thresholds and legal exposures introduced by the new law. Key areas requiring review include:

• Business registration and commercial premises compliance
• Foreign-language tour guide licenses
• Qualification and residency status of technical directors
• Contract structures for cross-border partnerships

Legal Guidance That Moves With You

Whether you’re updating documentation, restructuring operations, or navigating licensing nuances, our office is available to advise discreetly and precisely. Early legal alignment will help your agency avoid substantial fines and preserve client trust—while reinforcing Macau’s commitment to quality tourism.