• GDP: US$10 billion (2004).
• Main exports: Clothing, textiles, footwear, toys, electronics, machinery and parts.
• Main imports: Raw materials and semi-manufactured goods, consumer goods (foodstuffs, beverages and tobacco), capital goods, mineral fuels and oil.
• Main trade partners: USA, China (PR), Hong Kong, Japan, Germany, Taiwan and Singapore.

Macau has long been an important distribution outlet for Chinese products and, in this respect, is similar to Hong Kong. Agriculture is negligible and there are very few natural resources (Macau relies almost entirely on imported oil to meet its energy needs.) The territory has an active manufacturing and export sector. Macau has recovered well since the 1998 Asian financial crisis; during 2004 Macau registered a year-on-year GDP increase of 20 per cent. Macau is also well known in the region for its extensive gambling facilities: the associated tourism has become a major source of income. Development of new infrastructure and facilities for the 2005 East Asian Games bolstered the construction sector. Trade between Macau and the neighbouring Chinese Special Economic Zone of Zhuhai has grown rapidly and contributed substantially to Macau’s present trade surplus. The closer economic partnership agreement (CEPA) between Macau and mainland China came into effect in January 2004 and offers many Macau-made products tariff-free access to the mainland. The range of products covered by CEPA was increased in January 2005. Sino-Portuguese agreement, under which Macau reverted to Chinese rule in December 1999, guarantees the continuation of Macau’s economic status for a minimum of 50 years. Macau’s currency, the Pataca, has been retained indefinitely.

Businesspeople are expected to dress smartly. Calling cards are essential, appointments should be made in advance and punctuality is appreciated. The World Trade Centre (16th Floor, 918 Edificio World Trade Centre, 918 Avenida da Amizade (tel: 727 666; e-mail: wtcmc@macau.ctm.net) offers assistance and various facilities for businesses, including a VIP Club restaurant. Office hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1300 and 1500-1730 and Sat 0900-1230.

Macau’s major meetings venues include the Conference Centre at the University of Macau (with seating for up to 764), the Forum (a multipurpose complex with seating for up to 4035), the Tourist Activities and Conference Centre (with seating for up to 600) and Macau Landmark (featuring a unique ‘skyroof’). The majority of hotels also have facilities, and support services can be provided by the World Trade Centre. A new cultural centre (website: www.ccm.gov.mo) was inaugurated in March 1999 on the Outer Harbour waterfront. It includes two auditoria, one seating 1200 people and the other 400 people. The territory’s newest convention venue is the conference centre in the Macau Tower, the world’s 10th tallest building (website: www.macautower.com.mo). The tower also features a revolving restaurant, an entertainment area and shopping facilities. For further information, contact the Macau Government Tourist Office.

Associação Comercial de Macau
Edificio ACM, 5th Floor, Rua de Xangai, Macau (SAR)
Tel: 576 833.