Macau residents eligible for China’s electronic device subsidy

Macau residents can now access a new subsidy scheme launched by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), aimed at improving the process of purchasing electronic devices.

Residents interested in this scheme need only to have a valid Resident Identity Card (BIR), register with UnionPay, have a local telephone number, and possess a debit or credit card issued in mainland China, as cited in a TDM report.

Residents can apply for a subsidy of up to RMB500 for each digital device purchased. However, the total value of the equipment cannot exceed RMB6,000.

Among the products covered by the scheme are smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches.

The scheme also offers a 20% subsidy on the purchase of 12 categories of home appliances. In this case, discounts can be up to RMB2,000 per purchase.

Some electronic store owners expressed concern over the timing of the subsidy, as Macau enters a low season post-Lunar New Year.

Lawmaker Lam Lon Wai echoed these opinions, stating, “Perhaps the government could consider a 25% subsidy on all spending across various sectors, including dining, clothing, and electronics.”

He also suggested that “the government offer support to residents according to their respective income.” Staff Reporter