Macau Aims to Transform into Healthcare Tourism Hub

Macau, China — Macau is shifting its focus from gambling to healthcare tourism with the opening of a luxury medical facility. This week, iRad Hospital launched its resort hospital, offering services like health screening, advanced scans, and cosmetic procedures. The initiative aligns with China’s efforts to diversify Macau’s economy.

The gaming city, known for its vibrant casinos, faced significant revenue losses during the Covid-19 pandemic. Although the economy is bouncing back, officials aim to transition industries away from gambling towards areas such as healthcare and technology. Macau has historically attracted nearly 40 million visitors each year, and this new medical tourism push aims to extend their stay and spending.

The hospital is located within the Studio City resort, which combines entertainment elements with hospitality. Macau overtook Las Vegas as the world’s top gambling hub in the early 2000s, but officials are now seeking new avenues for economic growth.

Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted the need for “economic diversification” during a visit in late 2024. Macau’s governance has been comparatively stable under Chinese rule, but recent political developments signal a potential shift in oversight by Beijing.

Gaming taxes continue to constitute a major portion of Macau’s public revenue. The push for medical tourism comes as other Asian countries draw wealthy patients for affordable procedures. According to market estimates, the global medical tourism industry could see significant growth over the next decade.