Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai has vowed to direct science and technology funding toward authentic economic transformation, steering clear of a “superficially attractive ‘technological’ image” as Macau pursues its diversification from gaming.
The CE, speaking at the First Plenary Meeting of the Science and Technology Council in 2026, emphasized that public investments must fuel industrialization and productivity. He spotlighted the Macau Science and Technology Research and Development Industrial Park as a magnet for such high-caliber companies and investments.
Complementing this, the CE highlighted the government’s planned MOP20 billion (USD2.56 billion) guidance fund, expected to launch this year with an initial MOP11 billion ($1.41 billion) infusion from fiscal reserve returns, and the remainder drawn from social capital to amplify investment leverage.
“This fund will play a leading role in channeling social capital to priority industries and key projects, thereby robustly driving industrial modernization and the development of scientific innovation, optimizing the employment structure, and creating more high-quality development opportunities for businesses and residents of Macau,” Sam said.
The CE also outlined Macau’s third Five-Year Plan, which will be linked to Beijing’s national blueprint for tight coordination. “It will proactively, comprehensively, and precisely align with and implement national strategic guidelines, enhance the scientific and technological innovation system, and strengthen the transformation of scientific and technological outcomes,” he stated.
Adding, “This will ensure that, in the country’s journey to becoming a scientific and technological powerhouse, Macau will not be absent or lagging behind, but will make distinct contributions.”
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