Jacky So: Macau is becoming a platform for trade with Portuguese-speaking countries

Jacky So, Dean of Faculty of Business Administration at the University of Macau, explains that despite its small area, Macau plays an extremely important role as a gateway to the Pearl River Delta and the Bay Area; and if Macau could be linked more closely to the Bay Area, it would be possible to create a vast market.

Given the opportunities that the B&R initiative presents for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Bay Area, So is very optimistic about Macau’s future. He points out that the development of tourism in Macau differs significantly from that of Hong Kong or Singapore, and this has made the territory a top tourist destination that appeals to both men and women of all ages. Thanks to the even more convenient transport links brought about by the imminent opening of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, So is very positive about the prospects for tourism in Macau. So also notes that part of Macau’s historical legacy is excellent relationships with Portuguese-speaking countries and the Chinese government has designated Macau as a platform for trade with Portuguese-speaking countries, while the territory also enjoys low customs duties that provide opportunities for overseas Chinese businesspeople.

In terms of innovation, So explains that the University of Macau is home to two national research institutes. One is focused on the use of science and technology to standardize traditional Chinese medicine, particularly in the context of the increasingly serious problem of the ageing population in China, which also presents considerable opportunities for medicine and associated industries. The other national research institute specializes in research into computer chip technologies and has already been granted a number of patents. So also notes that the territory’s government has produced a five-year plan dedicated to developing Macau into a “smart city”, a project that provides huge investment opportunities for many industries.