Business chambers voice optimism and key priorities ahead of Policy Address

Rutger Verschuren

Business leaders across the city are voicing hopes for a bold, forward-looking strategy to reinvigorate the economy, accelerate diversification, and strengthen Macau’s regional and global position.

This comes as Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai prepares to deliver his 2025 Policy Address this afternoon at the Legislative Assembly.

To the Times, Rutger Verschuren, chairman of the France Macau Chamber of Commerce (FMCC), expressed confidence that the address will “signal a further step toward a more diversified and resilient economy that will uplift the welfare of our society.”

He emphasized the importance of a long-term vision aligned with the “1+4” economic diversification framework, which covers finance, high-tech, healthcare, and the cultural and MICE industries.

“We hope each sector will receive structural government support,” Verschuren noted, including faster licensing processes, regulatory adaptation, and better talent management strategies.

He also underscored the need for clearer support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through digital transformation and a “large businesses leading small businesses” model that fosters mentoring and ecosystem growth.

Additionally, the business community expects a renewed focus on workforce readiness, with investments in vocational training and international exchange programs to support Macau’s economic diversification.

Keith Buckley

In terms of integration, the FMCC is hopeful that the Chief Executive will announce more tangible incentives to strengthen cooperation between Macau and Hengqin.

“We may see a move toward what I call ‘Two Regions – One Destination’ to give a clear signal that Macau is serious about Hengqin integration,” Verschuren said.

He called for transparent cross-border policies, improved logistics, and aligned services to attract international and Macau-based professionals and businesses to Hengqin.

Verschuren also emphasized Macau’s potential as a bridge between China and Portuguese-speaking countries. “This platform role opens doors for trade, cultural exchange, and investment, and provides new business opportunities for both local and international players,” he said, adding that the FMCC is committed to deepening France-Macau cooperation in that space.

Meanwhile, the British Chamber of Commerce in Macau echoed many of these priorities, adding key expectations centered around infrastructure and urban redevelopment.

Keith Buckley, vice-chairman of the chamber, emphasized the need for clear, targeted initiatives to boost Macau’s competitiveness.

“We expect to hear about the establishment of task forces to formulate strategies and oversee the implementation of the diversification program,” said Buckley.

“The task forces should include public and private sector representatives and specialist consultants,” he added.

The chamber also called on the government to revitalize the Macau Jockey Club land, roll out detailed plans for the urban renewal of older districts, and expand critical infrastructure, while also calling for the expansion of the Light Railway on the Macau Peninsula.

To maintain long-term economic momentum, the chamber highlighted the importance of improving the talent attraction scheme and rolling out updated employment development strategies that reflect the evolving needs of industries and the workforce.

Both chambers emphasized that improving public sector efficiency and governance will be essential for success.

Verschuren stressed that business licensing and approvals must be streamlined and that he hopes for real progress in e-government adoption and stronger public-private collaboration to make Macau more agile and investor-friendly.

“We hope that each sector will receive structural government support, such as fast-tracking business licensing, reviewing and tailoring regulations for the four sectors, and implementing effective talent management,” he said.

He added that while prioritizing local employment, the city should also look at attracting skilled talent from the mainland and abroad “through streamlined visa and residency procedures” in high-demand sectors.

The FMCC also anticipates alignment with central government directives – particularly in reinforcing the city’s role within the Greater Bay Area, ensuring national security, and accelerating economic diversification.

“We welcome initiatives that foster a sustainable business environment, strengthen regional and international cooperation, and enable businesses to contribute meaningfully to Macau’s future,” Verschuren concluded.