Just as the industry in Macau was reeling from fresh threats of a complete smoking ban in the Chinese gambling enclave, some relief may be on the way.

Macau

Local media is reporting that the authorities may soften the planned extension on smoking restrictions on gaming floors.

As a result, casino stocks surged in Hong Kong, Wynn Macau moving up 5.7 per cent and Galaxy Entertainment Group and Sand China both moved at least 4.7 per cent.