The 29th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF) is set to begin on October 16 at the Venetian Macao, with Hengqin taking a prominent role. Over the course of four days, the event will host more than ten activities centered around Portuguese-speaking countries, including a "Portuguese-speaking Countries Market Zone," aiming to create a robust platform for trade exchanges. Accredited by the Global Association for the Exhibition Industry (UFI), this year's MIF will offer a dynamic mix of exhibitions, forums, project presentations, and networking sessions, targeting five main sectors: the "1+4" industries, Sino-Portuguese trade, Hengqin-Macao synergy, Macao-Portugal business opportunities, international chain brands, and intellectual property.

Hengqin is using this year's MIF to spotlight its advances across industries such as technological innovation, cultural tourism, modern finance, trade logistics, and healthcare. With a nearly 900-square-meter pavilion, Hengqin will showcase over 50 key enterprises, highlighting the island's development over the past three years. The pavilion will serve as a testament to Hengqin's growing influence in both domestic and international markets.

The Trade and Investment Promotion Institute has confirmed the participation of government bodies, trade associations, and companies from various Portuguese-speaking countries, spanning sectors including agricultural technology, cross-border e-commerce, and logistics. An additional highlight will be the product evaluation sessions featuring more than 40 items, including wine, spirits, and coffee, showcased by over 20 suppliers from Portuguese-speaking nations.

Expanding the Exhibition to Drive Macao's Diversified Economic Development

The 29th MIF coincides with celebrations of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland. This year's exhibition layout has been enhanced with the introduction of two new zones: the "Diverse Industry Exhibition Zone" and the "Portuguese-speaking Countries Market Zone." These additions align with Macao's "1+4" diversified economic strategy, designed to strengthen the synergy between industries and exhibitions, driving economic growth.

Among the six exhibition zones is the newly established "Diverse Industry Exhibition Zone," featuring showcases such as the "Macao Economic and Trade Pavilion," the "Smart Exhibition Zone," and the "Big Health Pavilion." These areas will highlight innovations in industries ranging from technology and health to smart exhibitions. For the first time, a beauty and wellness section will debut, showcasing the latest trends in health and beauty from the Greater Bay Area, as well as exploring potential synergies between traditional Chinese medicine and the beauty industry.

The "Smart Exhibition Zone" will focus on the latest developments in digital exhibitions, showcasing trends and solutions from both Hengqin and Macao. This section aims to promote the digital transformation of the exhibition industry, further enhancing Macao's position as a global hub for large-scale international exhibitions.

Showcasing Hengqin's Growth and Investment Potential

Hengqin's pavilion at this year's MIF has grown significantly, expanding to 900 square meters—five times larger than last year. Over 60 prominent companies will participate, representing sectors such as technology, high-end manufacturing, healthcare, and finance. This expanded presence reflects Hengqin's efforts to position itself as a key player in the development of the Guangdong-Macao In-depth Cooperation Zone, providing a prime platform for businesses to explore new growth opportunities in the region.

A variety of business matchmaking sessions, including special events for modern finance and cross-border e-commerce, will take place, helping exhibitors and buyers to foster deeper business relationships. This aligns with MIF's role as a bridge between companies, encouraging collaborations that extend beyond the exhibition floor and into real-world business growth.

Collaborative Development Across the Greater Bay Area

The 29th MIF will run concurrently with the 2024 Macao Franchise Expo (2024 MFE), further enhancing the event's reach and significance. Additionally, the "Third Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Service Trade Conference" will take place in Macao for the first time during MIF, focusing on the theme of "Service Digitalization as a Catalyst for Trade Innovation." This conference will underscore Macao's strategic importance in the digital transformation of trade services across the Greater Bay Area.

With the introduction of new policies such as the 144-hour visa-free transit and organized group travel, the MIF will also feature a series of events that allow participants to experience the advantages of the Macao-Hengqin zone firsthand. These initiatives aim to drive long-term growth for both the exhibition industry and the broader economy of the region.

As the deep cooperation zone approaches a key milestone, Hengqin’s expanded presence at the MIF will not only highlight its current achievements but also its future potential as a hub for innovation, finance, and international trade. The event offers a unique opportunity for participants to engage with the region's development and contribute to its ongoing success.