MIF 2024 launches with record participation

The 29th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF) and the Macao Franchise Expo (MFE) kicked off yesterday at the Cotai Expo in the Venetian Macao, attracting over 1,300 exhibitors from various regions.

Open to trade visitors yesterday (Oct 16), the event will welcome the public from Oct. 17 to 19.

This year’s fairs are themed “Economic Diversification and Development Opportunities” for MIF and “Brands Gathering with Business Opportunities” for MFE, aiming to foster collaboration and innovation in the region.

The opening ceremony featured notable attendees such as Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng, who in his address emphasized the fairs’ significance for local businesses, stating, “These events are crucial for connecting local businesses with international markets.”

Vincent U, President of the Trade and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM), said this year’s MIF includes a record 195 exhibitors from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).

“We aim to create a more effective platform for collaboration,” U said, noting that extending the duration of the fair would facilitate deeper discussions among participants.

Spanning 38,000 square meters across six exhibition halls, this year’s fair features ten distinct zones.

A highlight is a new smart exhibition area designed to integrate technology into various industries.

U noted the importance of exhibitors from Portuguese-speaking countries: “This year, we have 183 exhibitors from these countries, reflecting our commitment to fostering these important connections.”

The MFE also celebrated its sixth inauguration ceremony yesterday.

Ian Man Wong, President of the Directors Board of the Macau Chain Stores and Franchise Association, underscored the role of franchise models in expanding local businesses.

“Our priority is to assist local enterprises in developing overseas through chain franchises,” Wong said, adding that such initiatives are vital for enhancing the competitiveness of Macau’s small- and medium-sized enterprises.

In addition to exhibitions, over 80 trade promotion sessions are scheduled throughout the fair’s duration. These sessions aim to facilitate business matching and investment opportunities across various sectors including technology, finance, and tourism.

This year’s MIF will feature Shenzhen as the Partner City, hosting the “Shenzhen Pavilion.”

Under the themes “Mountain-Sea Vistas” and “City of Innovation,” the pavilion will showcase over 40 leading enterprises in innovative technology, cultural tourism, and creative industries.

Its objectives include enhancing industrial collaboration between Shenzhen and Macau while deepening economic ties.

The pavilion will span over 400 square meters and consist of three thematic zones: Urban Image and Cultural Tourism, Technological Innovation, and Healthy Life—alongside a functional zone for business promotions.

The Urban Image and Cultural Tourism Zone will host the “2024 China (Shenzhen) ICIF-Macao Expo,” providing an immersive experience showcasing Shenzhen’s cultural strengths.

The Technological Innovation Zone will highlight cutting-edge advancements from Shenzhen enterprises, including innovations like holographic screens and drones. Nadia Shaw