Macao unveiled its Third Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development on August 18, covering the period from 2026 to 2030. The document outlines the main direction of development for the special administrative region over the next five years and provides a framework for a longer period.
According to Macao's leadership, the plan is of crucial importance for the further development of the region and for continuing the principle of "one country, two systems" with local characteristics. It focuses primarily on high-quality economic growth, greater diversification of the economy, and improving living standards for residents.
The new plan also builds upon China's 15th Five-Year Plan. Macao aims to take advantage of opportunities associated with the long-term development of the Chinese economy and strengthen its involvement in national development strategies.
The Chief Executive of the Special Administrative Region of Macao, Chen Haohui, described the document as a roadmap for a new stage of high-quality development. According to him, the government wants to work with local society to promote the vision of a "Macao based on the rule of law," a "dynamic Macao," a "cultural Macao," and a "happy Macao."
The new plan follows the previous five-year period, during which, according to local authorities, all 20 main indicators of economic and social development, divided into four key areas, were met.
In 2025, Macao's gross domestic product reached 418.04 billion Macanese patacas, an increase of 4.7 percent year-on-year. The International Monetary Fund also stated in its assessment that the region's economy remains resilient, the financial system is generally stable, and diversification of the financial sector and the entire economy continues gradually.
Reducing Macao's dependence on a few traditional industries is one of the long-term priorities of the local leadership. The Third Five-Year Plan therefore provides for support for new economic activities and closer integration of the region with China's overall development.
The document also emphasizes coordination between economic development and security. Under the direction of the administrative chief, the local government is preparing key reforms and development measures, but at the same time, according to the published plan, it plans to hold consultations and build broader social consensus.
The Third Five-Year Plan is intended not only to be a continuation of the existing economic strategy, but also a foundation for further transformation of Macao towards a more diverse, stable, and sustainable economy.
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