Gov’t reports strong Q1 surge as arrivals surpass 10 million

[Photo; Ricaela Diputado]

Macau’s inbound tourism is seeing “steady and positive growth” in 2026, Secretary for Economy and Finance Anton Tai Kin Ip said Friday, announcing that first-quarter visitor arrivals exceeded 10 million, including over 750,000 from abroad.

Speaking at the opening of the 14th Macao International Travel (Industry) Expo, Tai said the city’s tourism sector continues to show strong momentum.

“This year, Macau’s tourism industry has maintained a steady and positive growth momentum,” he said. “In the first quarter, visitor arrivals continued to increase, exceeding 10 million, with preliminary estimates suggesting over 750,000 international visitors.”

He also highlighted a major milestone in 2025, when total Macau arrivals surpassed 40 million for the first time, with nearly 2.76 million international visitors recording double-digit growth.

Tai acknowledged ongoing “uncertainties in the international situation and geopolitics,” but pledged that the government will “continue to enrich tourism products, host major events, improve tourism infrastructure” and “seize opportunities amidst risks” by targeting new markets.

Aligning with China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and Macao’s “1+4” diversification strategy, Tai emphasized integrating tourism with technology, exhibitions, culture, sports, and commerce.

“We will continuously deepen the cross-sectoral integration,” he said, aiming for “high-quality, sustainable and diversified” growth while strengthening Macau’s position as “one center, one platform, one base” in the Greater Bay Area.

Tai also announced progress on the second phase of the “Macau Tourism Industry Development Master Plan,” with 74 action plans across six categories now fully launched.

Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai, Liaison Office director Zheng Xincong, Hong Kong Tourism Board chairman Peter Lam Kin-ngok, Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) president Deland Leong, and other dignitaries attended the opening ceremony.

Organized by the MGTO, the three-day event brought together over 700 exhibitors from 59 countries, including Belt and Road and Portuguese-speaking regions. Expo highlights include “tourism +” innovations, halal products, and Gen Z-focused initiatives.