Hengqin maps out closer cooperation with Macau in 2025–2029 Plan

Hengqin has released its 2025–2029 development plan, laying out a roadmap aimed at further integrating its economy and regulatory framework with neighboring Macau.

The plan comes amid broader efforts by Beijing to accelerate regional cooperation across southern China.

The five-year blueprint, released by mainland authorities this week, highlights cross-border collaboration, emerging industry support, and regulatory harmonization as central themes.

Officials say the plan will serve as a framework for deepening Hengqin’s role as a partner to Macau and a gateway for international commerce.

Policy integration with Macau by 2029

At the core of the proposal is a commitment to fully align Hengqin’s regulatory environment with that of Macau by 2029.

Authorities are targeting the creation of a unified mechanism that will ease the movement of goods, services, and talent across the border.

Such integration is expected to simplify cross-border business operations, especially for companies registered in both regions.

This plan coincides with Macau’s approach to the 30th anniversary of its return to Chinese administration in 1999, a milestone expected to be marked by heightened cooperation and policy alignment with the mainland.

High-tech industry and innovation

Another pillar of the development strategy is support for research-driven, high-value industries. New industrial parks are in the pipeline, designed to serve as incubators for technological research and business innovation.

Sectoral development will concentrate on microelectronics, digital finance, healthcare, and cultural tourism. These industries are projected to make up roughly 65% of Hengqin’s economic output by the end of the plan’s term.

Hengqin officials have identified innovation as a core engine of future growth, with incentives for tech start-ups, joint research projects with Macau institutions, and foreign investment in R&D.

Backing for Macau-funded businesses

In parallel, the plan calls for greater support of Macau-funded enterprises operating in Hengqin. Authorities aim to increase the output of these firms to RMB9 billion by 2029, nearly doubling current levels.

To achieve this, Hengqin is pledging streamlined licensing processes, improved infrastructure, and expanded cooperation zones for Macau-based firms, particularly those in professional services, finance, and tourism.

The policy direction echoes calls from Macau’s own policymakers to diversify the territory’s economy beyond gaming and build stronger links with the mainland’s real economy.

Promoting Traditional Chinese Medicine

In an effort to tap into growing global interest in wellness and natural health products, Hengqin will promote Macau-branded Chinese medicine and dietary supplements.

This initiative seeks to leverage Macau’s existing production and research capabilities and bring them to a wider international market. Staff reporter