Document-free clearance channels set for Hengqin

Chief Executive (CE) Sam Hou Fai revealed last week that “document-free” clearance channels featuring full facial recognition will become operational at Hengqin Port by year-end.

Speaking at Wednesday’s National Day Reception marking the 76th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China, Sam hailed this advancement as a key step to deepen Macau and Hengqin integration.

“Automated collaborative inspection and joint clearance, with ‘document-free’ channels at Hengqin Port, will start operation this quarter,” said the CE.

Concurrently, Sam pointed to key projects being pursued by the government in Hengqin and Macau, including the Macao-Hengqin International Education (University) Town. Other initiatives addressed by the CE include international tourism and cultural districts in Macau, an air transport hub on the west bank of the Pearl River, and the Macau Technology Research Industrial Park.

“We are determined to advocate appropriate economic diversification and achieve new heights in the integration of Macau and Hengqin,” said Sam.

Highlighting Macau’s “Four Key Industries Area” under the ‘1+4’ economic diversification strategy, the CE said, “We continue promoting appropriate economic diversification and orderly development related to government industry funds and guidance funds.”

On specific industries, he said, “We strive for high-quality development in traditional Chinese medicine and the big health industry, modern finance, high technology, and conference and exhibition sectors.”

“We strive to stabilize the economy, support employment, and rejuvenate growth, with increased support for small and medium-sized enterprises remaining a priority,” he added.