Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai highlighted Macao's push to embrace a new era of financial and industrial development as the Investment Fund Law takes effect on January 1, 2026. His remarks emphasized pragmatic measures to invigorate the economy, support businesses, and nurture talent, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity.

Sam Hou Fai noted that SMEs are the lifeblood of Macao's economy, and the government is committed to enhancing their competitiveness. This includes financial support, capacity-building programs, branding initiatives, and digital services. Tax relief, loan interest subsidies, and development grants will empower small businesses to adapt, innovate, and grow, while community-driven schemes, such as linking local events with neighborhood consumption, aim to energize Macao's vibrant districts.

He stressed the importance of talent development and local employment, with specialized training programs designed to meet the demands of emerging sectors including finance, biomedicine, digital technology, and aerospace. Through integrated platforms, education, vocational training, and industry needs are tightly coupled, ensuring precision in skills development and workforce placement.

On the infrastructure and innovation front, Sam Hou Fai highlighted key projects, such as the phased development of the Macao International University City, the Macao International Tourism and Cultural Zone, and the expansion of airport logistics facilities. The forthcoming Macao Technology and R&D Industrial Park will serve as a hub for medium-sized research enterprises, prioritizing sectors that combine high-tech ambition with local strengths.

Macao’s growing role as a cross-border financial hub was another key point. The city is strengthening collaboration with the Hengqin Guangdong-Macao deep cooperation zone and Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking countries through the China–Portuguese and Spanish-speaking Countries Economic and Trade Service Center, facilitating international investment flows. Initiatives such as a Renminbi liquidity facility, extended-term RMB financing, and promotion of the Macao bond market and Digital Macao Pataca project reflect the city's drive to combine financial sophistication with operational flexibility.

Finally, Sam Hou Fai emphasized that the Investment Fund Law is more than a regulatory milestone—it is a platform for attracting quality fund management entities, fostering innovation, and reinforcing Macao's economic diversification. By blending policy clarity, financial infrastructure, and talent readiness, Macao is positioning itself as a hub for forward-looking investors and a launchpad for new ventures in the region.