Executive Council Completes Discussion of Activities Bill: Permits for Public Filming Crews Over 10, Unregistered Photo-Tour Businesses Face Fines Up to MOP 100,000
MACAO — The Executive Council on October 7 completed discussion of a draft law establishing a regulatory regime for specified businesses and activities. TDM reported that the bill proposes tiered controls on filming in public places: shoots involving more than 10 participants would require prior permission, while smaller-scale filming by fewer than 10 people would fall under a registration system. The bill will be sent to the Legislative Assembly for deliberation.
Another focus of the draft is the paid photography services popularly known as travel-photo shoots. TDM reported that the government proposes fines of up to MOP 100,000 for operating such a business without registration. Paid photo services for visitors have grown quickly around Senado Square, the Ruins of St. Paul's and Rua do Cunha, and complaints about operators occupying public space to tout for customers, unlicensed trading and fee disputes have fuelled calls for regulation.
Under the proposed approach, everyday photography by residents and visitors and small personal shoots would be unaffected. Businesses providing photography services in public places on a commercial, ongoing basis would need to register first, while large crews — whose work affects crowd flow and public order — would need prior permission. After the Executive Council's discussion, the bill proceeds to the Legislative Assembly, and the final penalties and enforcement details will depend on the text as passed.
The tourism trade and photography operators have reacted in different ways. Some argue that a clear registration system helps distinguish normal sightseeing photography from commercial touting and protects order and the visitor experience at major sights. Smaller operators say they are watching the registration procedures and costs, and hope for clear guidance and transitional arrangements during the legislative process. The government has said the regime aims to balance the use of public space, tourism order and industry development.
Source: Compiled from TDM reporting of October 7, 2026, on the Executive Council's discussion of the specified businesses and activities bill.
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 议事亭前地，Rudolph.A.furtado 摄，公共领域（Wikimedia Commons）
