Restaurant smart upgrade plan expands in 2026

Macau restaurants will soon be able to apply for subsidies to install “smart” kitchen equipment under the 2026 Macau Catering Industry Smart Upgrade Plan, which opens for applications next month.

The scheme will cover items such as automated woks, drink dispensers, and other devices designed to help local small- and medium-sized eateries, new restaurants, and their central kitchens upgrade equipment, streamline management, and raise operational efficiency.

Attendees of yesterday’s press conference included Lei U Weng, chairman of the United Association of Food and Beverage Merchants of Macau; Iong Nin Fai, director of DSEDT’s Technology Department; and Kuan Chan Victoria Alexa, deputy director-general of the Productivity and Technology Transfer Centre (CPTTM).

As part of Macau’s “1+4” economic diversification strategy, Iong said the initiative is designed to better match policy support with business realities. “The goal is to ensure these support measures are more aligned with the actual needs and circumstances of enterprises, truly helping SMEs solve their operational pain points,” he stated.

In her address, Kuan noted that in recent years, CPTTM has already helped nearly 600 businesses with digital upgrades. She said the new plan also aims to promote more standardized management and services across the catering sector, such as automating routine tasks and streamlining workflows.

Subsidies and Eligibility

The new phase increases the number of supported restaurants from 50 to 70. Subsidies will cover 80% of equipment costs, capped at MOP50,000 per business.

Unlike the 2021 pilot, it will no longer subsidize central kitchens and will target dine-in venues only, said the Food and Beverage Merchants of Macau chairman.

Lei said, “This phase of our Smart Upgrade Plan will increase the number of slots and will no longer subsidize central kitchens. Instead, the number of subsidized restaurants will be increased to 70. The subsidy will cover 80% of the cost of purchasing smart equipment, up to a maximum of MOP50,000.”

Lei added, “We hope the catering industry will continue to actively participate and jointly promote the upgrading of food processing equipment. Improving the efficiency and quality of food processing will undoubtedly enhance the overall competitiveness of the catering industry.”

Results from 2021 Pilot

The upgrade builds on an earlier 2021 pilot scheme, which drew 66 applications and led 54 restaurants to install devices, such as automated woks. Officials said participating venues reported service speeds up to 30% faster, more “consistent food quality,” and reduced staff workload.

Highlighting the operational benefits already observed, Lei told attendees, “One automated wok can cook six portions simultaneously. When another customer orders noodles three minutes later, both get fresh meals at an optimal temperature.”

Lei also suggested that artificial intelligence could play a growing role in local kitchens.

“AI can design new dishes and name them; this keeps pace with the times,” he said, encouraging more restaurants and businesses to explore opportunities brought about by new technologies.

Application Process

Applications will run from Jan. 5 to Jan. 23, 2026.

Restaurants must first submit equipment proposals. After approval, businesses will receive permits for installation, followed by delivery and setup by local suppliers. The entire process is expected to take about 45 days.

Once equipment is installed, restaurant staff must complete mandatory training. Authorities will then conduct on-site inspections before releasing subsidy funds to each participating restaurant, according to the CPTTM.

Officials also warned that violations, like “reselling devices or closure without notification, require the refunding of all subsidies.”

Approved applicants will be selected by lottery, with results to be published on the CPTTM website in February 2026.