Former colony supports the bridge

Macanese think that the bridge will help their economy

by Candy Kan

A former Portuguese colony, Macao reverted to Chinese rule in 1999 and became a Special Administrative Region (SAR). It is strategically located on the western side of the Pearl River mouth and borders Zhuhai (see Map).

Macao is known as the Monte Carlo of the Orient. Gambling sector represents 64% of the Territory's revenue. Casinos plays an important role as a tourist attraction of Macao.

The SAR's economy relies heavily on tourism and gaming industry. Around 50,000 people cross Guanzha (Border Gates) checkpoint at the border with Zhuhai each day. About 20,000 passengers enter via the Outer Harbour ferry terminal daily. Total visitors to Macao can reach approximately 1 million per month.

Imports and exports are primarily through Hong Kong via sea transport. Limitations in road transport have restricted Macao's business opportunities with Hong Kong and Guangdong province.

In 2000, trade between Macao and Guangdong province reached a total of USD $660 million. Investments in the province by Macanese companies totalled over USD $128 million, increasing 155% over the previous year. This involved 6,366 projects in real estates, road network, exhibitions and consultative services.

What do Macanese think? Macanese generally welcome the bridge and hope to tighten the SAR's relationship with Hong Kong and Guangdong province. They hope this will further develop the Pearl River Delta economy and strengthen the flow of capital from Hong Kong and Macao to the region. Edmund Ho, Chief Executive of the Macao SAR is positive towards the proposition to construct a bridge linking Hong Kong, Macao and Zhuhai. He stresses that his government will support any infrastructure that will benefit the transportation network connecting Macao, Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta. However, he says that the project depends on the coordination of the Central Government and on further analyses by the authorities of the three territories. What do Macao SMEs think?

"Macau will definitely benefit from the bridge." Jose M.O. Coutinho Head of Department, Economic Services, The Government of the MSAR a.k.a. Macao Civil Servant's Association President (view video interview)