Macau to pursue economic diversification aligned with national plans: CE

Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai stated that this year, coinciding with the nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan, marks a critical period for Macau to pursue tangible results in achieving appropriate economic diversification, while reaffirming plans to visit Portugal and Spain.

The remarks were made during an interview with Macau’s leader by China News Service last week in Beijing, where the discussion focused on key issues such as aligning with national planning, enhancing governance effectiveness, deepening regional integration, and safeguarding national security.

According to the news report, the conversation provided insights into the Macau government’s governance team’s strategies, arrangements, and future blueprint.

In 2026, Macau will also initiate the formulation and implementation of its third Five-Year Plan.

Sam stated that the government will adhere to the guidelines of Beijing’s 15th Five-Year Plan proposal to proactively prepare for this new plan. He emphasized that this not only represents a constitutional responsibility but also serves as a historic opportunity for Macau to achieve significant development. “We will fully align with and implement the national 15th Five-Year Plan outline without compromise,” he added.

In his commitment to “leverage Macau’s unique advantage of being backed by the motherland while connecting with the world,” Sam outlined plans to collaborate with Hengqin to enhance the Pavilion of China-Portuguese-speaking Countries Commercial and Trade Service Platform.

He emphasized the need to accelerate the development of the Science and Technology Exchange and Cooperation Center, transforming the existing platform into a “hub” that fosters appropriate economic diversification.

In a discussion on Macau-Hengqin integration, Sam urged local business leaders to move to Hengqin and become pioneers in its development, highlighting the government’s commitment to creating favorable conditions for Macau residents to live and work there.

In response to questions regarding the region’s governance effectiveness, Sam remarked that upholding and improving the political system, with the administrative branch as the core, is essential for Macau’s steady progress and long-term development.

He stressed the importance of synergy among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, stating that they must work in concert to drive development.

Reflecting on Macau’s progress in refining its national security legal framework, strengthening enforcement mechanisms, and enhancing law enforcement alongside public education, he underscored that safeguarding national security is the cornerstone for the stable and long-term implementation of ‘One country, two systems,’ noting that this task “is never complete.”

Meanwhile, the report reveals that Sam plans to lead a delegation to visit Malaysia and Indonesia, aiming to further strengthen Macau’s ties and exchanges with Southeast Asian nations.