Gov’t receives over 800 applications under non-local talent regime

Since August this year, the government has received over 800 applications under the city’s program to attract highly qualified professionals, secretary-general of the Talents Development Committee (CDQQ), Chao Chong Hang said yesterday.

Chao said most of the applications received are from the second category of outstanding applicants, accounting for more than 500.

He said that although outstanding applicants may not be internationally renowned, they do not need to be hired by local employers, so the number of applications is relatively high.

Speaking on TDM’s radio show yesterday, the official said the government plans to introduce leaders and senior professionals needed for the development of various key industries in an orderly manner.

Currently, the big health and high-tech projects that were launched first have more applications. He expects the cultural and sports talent plan launched in the middle of this month will have the most applications.

In July, the government said it is aiming to attract around 1,000 non-local applicants to Macau annually.

A task force was established to oversee the evaluation criteria and specific requirements to attract  different types of qualified applicants.

This new regime replaces the former system of granting residency to people based on their qualifications and or investments in Macau, which was managed by the Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM).

The focus aims to promote Macau’s four key industries, although some other areas are also being considered, depending on the quality of the candidates and the work they propose to do. Staff Reporter