Macao Elevates Its Global Tourism Reputation as GTEF 2025 Shines a Spotlight on Heilongjiang’s Winter Economy and Cultural Empowerment

Macao’s international profile received a substantial boost as it hosted the 11th edition of the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) in Heilongjiang, China, in December 2025. This landmark event, held outside Macao for the first time, marked an important milestone for the city, positioning it as a major international tourism hub. Bringing together global leaders, industry experts, and tourism professionals, the Forum not only underscored the significance of tourism as a key economic driver but also highlighted Macao’s evolving role as a world centre of tourism and leisure. This collaboration aimed to explore innovative solutions and cooperation opportunities within the global tourism industry, with an emphasis on sustainable development and cross-border collaboration.

The Global Tourism Economy Forum: A Historic Milestone for Macao and Heilongjiang

Held in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, this year’s Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) was a groundbreaking event that transcended the boundaries of its traditional host city, Macao. The Forum attracted over 1,000 delegates, including cultural tourism officials, renowned entrepreneurs, and scholars from both China and various international destinations. The event was an opportunity to delve into key discussions surrounding the tourism economy, marking a turning point in how Macao can influence global tourism development.

Why Heilongjiang and Macao? The Strategic Partnership in Tourism

Heilongjiang, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, has become an increasingly important player in China’s tourism landscape. This year’s event highlighted the growing ties between Heilongjiang and Macao, especially in terms of economic cooperation and tourism collaboration. Here’s why this partnership is set to enhance the tourism experience for both regions:

• Diverse Resources: Heilongjiang’s vast landscapes, rich in winter tourism opportunities, and Macao’s world-renowned entertainment and cultural offerings complement each other perfectly, creating opportunities for new types of tourism experiences.
• Economic Cooperation: The two regions have signed several cooperative agreements and memorandums of understanding, strengthening their economic, trade, cultural, and tourism ties.
• Strategic Development: Macao’s “One Centre, One Platform, One Base” development strategy focuses on diversifying its industries and boosting sustainable tourism, while Heilongjiang is keen on exploring the tourism potential of its unique landscape, including its ice-snow economy and winter tourism.

Thematic Discussions at the Forum: Paving the Way for Future Growth

The Forum’s discussions were based on four main pillars that reflect both Heilongjiang’s and Macao’s aspirations for sustainable and innovative tourism development. These pillars are:

1. Ice-Snow Economy & Industrial Innovation
   Heilongjiang is emerging as a premier destination for winter sports and cold-weather tourism, attracting global attention with its ski resorts, snow festivals, and scenic winter landscapes. The Forum explored how these resources can be developed and marketed to attract more international visitors, enhancing the region’s profile as a winter tourism hub.
2. Cultural Empowerment & Brand Building
   Macao, known for its fusion of Portuguese and Chinese cultures, is positioning itself as a cultural tourism leader. The Forum discussed how both regions can empower their local cultures and brand their tourism offerings to appeal to diverse international markets.
3. Investment Leadership & Project Development
   Tourism investments and infrastructure development were key topics, focusing on how both regions can collaborate on large-scale tourism projects. Macao’s luxury resorts, integrated entertainment complexes, and cultural destinations have seen continuous investment, while Heilongjiang is keen to expand its tourism infrastructure to cater to a growing number of tourists.
4. Cross-Border Collaboration & Cooperation Opportunities
   The Forum emphasized the importance of cross-border tourism cooperation between regions like Macao and Heilongjiang, and how shared initiatives can create a more cohesive tourism offering. Joint marketing efforts, shared cultural events, and combined tourism packages were identified as key strategies for fostering deeper engagement and collaboration.

Macao’s Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

One of the most significant outcomes of the Global Tourism Economy Forum was Macao’s reinforced commitment to sustainable tourism. As the region moves forward with its “1+4” development strategy, it is becoming increasingly important for Macao to integrate sustainability into its tourism infrastructure. This commitment was underscored during the “Macao Session” at the Forum, where leaders discussed how to manage tourism growth responsibly.

Key highlights of Macao’s sustainable tourism approach include:

• Eco-friendly Resorts: Encouraging the development of eco-conscious resorts that minimize environmental impact while offering luxurious travel experiences.
• Green Tourism: Promoting green practices across the tourism sector, including sustainable transportation, waste management, and renewable energy usage in hotels and attractions.
• Cultural Sustainability: Ensuring that tourism growth does not harm the cultural heritage of the region, but rather enhances its value through thoughtful preservation and innovation.

The Role of Technology in Tourism Development

Technology was another focal point at the Forum, with discussions on how digital tools and innovations are transforming the tourism industry. From virtual reality (VR) experiences to smart tourism apps and data-driven insights, technology has become an integral part of the tourism experience in both Macao and Heilongjiang.

• Smart Tourism: Macao is embracing smart tourism initiatives, including digital ticketing systems, augmented reality tours, and AI-powered customer service, to enhance the visitor experience.
• Innovation in Hospitality: With the rise of digital platforms, Heilongjiang and Macao are looking at ways to integrate tech solutions in their hospitality and service industries to streamline operations and create more personalized experiences for travelers.

Macao’s Expanding Role in the Global Tourism Arena

Since its inception in 2012, the GTEF has established Macao as an influential player in the international tourism sector. The Forum’s success in Heilongjiang only adds to Macao’s growing reputation as a global centre for tourism innovation and exchange.

• Tourism Investment: Through the Forum’s initiatives, Macao is poised to attract more foreign investment in its tourism and leisure sectors, especially in the fields of entertainment, cultural heritage, and sustainable travel.
• International Recognition: By hosting such high-profile global events, Macao is reinforcing its position on the world stage, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of global tourism discussions.
• Future Prospects: The success of GTEF 2025 in Heilongjiang is expected to pave the way for future collaborations between Macao, Heilongjiang, and other international tourism destinations. The emphasis on cross-border cooperation, sustainable tourism practices, and cultural exchange will continue to shape the future of tourism in both regions.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Macao and Heilongjiang’s Tourism Development

The Global Tourism Economy Forum 2025 has undoubtedly elevated the global tourism landscape, particularly for Macao and Heilongjiang. As the tourism industry continues to evolve, both regions are well-positioned to lead the way in sustainable development, cultural exchange, and cross-border collaboration. By fostering closer ties with international markets, embracing technological innovations, and committing to sustainability, Macao and Heilongjiang are setting the stage for a new era in global tourism.

As both regions look toward the future, the discussions held at GTEF 2025 will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the global tourism economy in the years to come. With a focus on innovation, investment, and sustainable growth, the Forum has laid the foundation for continued cooperation, growth, and transformation in the global tourism industry.

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Macau Hits 36.5 Million Visitors in 2025, China Leads the Way, But Will Airlines and Resorts Be Ready for the Surge?

Macau hits 36.5 million visitors in 2025 — China leads the way, but will airlines and resorts be ready for the surge? After years of pandemic-related setbacks, Macau’s tourism industry is experiencing a remarkable recovery. With nearly 37 million visitors expected by the end of the year, the city is on track to nearly match its pre-pandemic tourism numbers. A significant portion of this growth can be attributed to the surge of tourists from Mainland China, which remains the city’s largest source of international visitors. As demand continues to rise, the city’s airlines and luxury resorts are bracing for an unprecedented influx of travelers. With airlines expanding routes and resorts preparing for higher occupancy rates, Macau’s tourism sector is positioning itself for a boom, ensuring that both seasoned visitors and newcomers have an unforgettable experience.

Macau Hits 36.5 Million Visitors in 2025 — China Leads the Way, But Will Airlines and Resorts Be Ready for the Surge?

Macau, the world-renowned resort city known for its dazzling casinos, luxurious hotels, and rich cultural heritage, has been experiencing an impressive resurgence in tourism. With visitor arrivals soaring to an astounding 36.5 million in the first 11 months of 2025, the city is on track to surpass its 2019 pre-pandemic visitor numbers. This remarkable recovery has been driven by increased demand, particularly from Mainland China, Macau’s largest source of visitors. But with the city preparing for even higher numbers in the coming months, both the airline industry and the hospitality sector must rise to the challenge of meeting this surge. As tourists flock to Macau, the city’s airlines and luxury resorts are gearing up to provide an exceptional experience, ensuring that both seasoned visitors and newcomers have a memorable stay.

The Surge of Chinese Tourists and Its Impact on Macau

The growth of Mainland China’s tourism market is undeniable. In 2025, China remains the dominant force in Macau’s tourism recovery, accounting for the largest share of visitors. The number of tourists traveling from mainland China has surged significantly, with the first 10 months of 2025 seeing a remarkable 17.7% year-on-year increase in arrivals. This surge is not only a testament to China’s robust economic recovery post-pandemic but also to the easing of travel restrictions and the increasing availability of cross-border travel options. Macau is capitalizing on its proximity to Guangdong Province and Hong Kong, with many visitors opting for short trips rather than long-haul flights.

Macau’s local government has worked tirelessly to enhance tourism infrastructure, making travel more convenient for Chinese tourists, especially those coming from neighboring regions. For instance, the Multiple Entry Visa Program allows frequent visitors from nearby cities like Zhuhai to make regular trips without the hassle of applying for new visas each time. As a result, Macau has seen a steady rise in cross-border traffic in 2025, contributing to the city’s continued economic recovery.

With China’s growing middle class and an increasing number of travelers looking to explore international destinations, Macau has positioned itself as an attractive destination. Whether it’s the world-class casinos, luxury shopping malls, or unique cultural attractions like the Ruins of St. Paul’s, tourists from China are flocking to the city in ever-greater numbers. But with the increase in visitors, the challenge for Macau’s airline and hospitality industries is to meet the surge in demand.

Airlines Prepare for the Surge in Macau’s Tourism

As Macau sees a significant influx of tourists, the airline industry faces the complex task of accommodating thousands of additional passengers. Airlines like Air Macau, Cathay Pacific, and China Eastern Airlines are stepping up their game to meet the rising demand. Macau’s international airport, while relatively small, serves as a vital gateway for travelers to the city.

Air Macau, the flag carrier for the region, has seen a substantial uptick in its flight operations in response to the tourism surge. As a result, travelers can expect direct flights from major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, as well as regional hubs like Hong Kong and Taipei. These flights are becoming increasingly frequent, with Air Macau offering multiple daily flights from several key cities, ensuring that visitors have more flexibility when planning their trips to Macau.

Cathay Pacific, another major player in the region, also continues to increase its presence in Macau. The airline has focused on connecting travelers from international markets to Macau through Hong Kong, its main hub. In 2025, Cathay Pacific introduced new routes and increased frequencies to meet the growing demand from tourists visiting Macau as part of a broader strategy to boost regional tourism. Other international carriers like Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways are following suit, offering competitive airfares and increased flight availability to tap into Macau’s growing tourism sector.

As international tourism in Macau flourishes, airlines are not only increasing the frequency of flights but are also making adjustments to meet the evolving preferences of modern travelers. With the city’s casinos and resorts remaining a major draw, flights catering to both business and leisure travelers are expanding. Whether you are visiting for the luxury hotels or the cultural attractions, Macau’s expanded flight options make it easier than ever to visit.

The Hospitality Sector Gears Up for a Record-Breaking Year

Alongside the booming airline industry, Macau’s hospitality sector is also experiencing a renaissance. With 36.5 million visitors expected by the end of 2025, the demand for high-quality accommodations is at an all-time high. The city’s luxury resorts, including iconic names like Wynn Macau, The Venetian Macao, and Galaxy Macau, are all prepared to accommodate the ever-growing number of tourists. These resorts have taken steps to enhance the guest experience, making sure that visitors can enjoy both luxury and convenience during their stay.

In addition to expanding existing facilities, many of these five-star resorts are investing heavily in new developments and renovations. For instance, Wynn Macau recently unveiled its latest luxury expansion, which includes a new gaming area, additional restaurants, and exclusive shopping outlets. These upgrades are aimed at attracting both high rollers and casual visitors, ensuring that every guest finds something to enjoy.

MGM Cotai, another premium resort, has also capitalized on the city’s growth by enhancing its entertainment options and offering a range of world-class dining and shopping experiences. As the demand for luxury stays increases, these resorts are also focusing on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, as more tourists seek environmentally conscious destinations.

To cater to the diverse needs of international visitors, Macau’s hotels are also offering various packages and promotions, aimed at creating affordable luxury experiences. With so many tourists pouring in from mainland China, Hong Kong, and other regions, the hospitality sector is leveraging its high-quality services to attract even more guests in 2025 and beyond.

How Tourists Can Make the Most of Their Trip to Macau

If you’re planning a trip to Macau, now is the perfect time to visit this vibrant city. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time in this travel hotspot:

1. Book Flights in Advance: Given the surge in demand for air travel to Macau, it’s essential to book your flights early to secure the best prices. Airlines like Air Macau, Cathay Pacific, and China Eastern offer competitive rates, but availability can quickly fill up, especially during peak holiday periods.
2. Plan Your Stay with Resort Packages: Many of Macau’s luxury resorts offer attractive packages that include accommodations, meals, and even gaming credits. Booking a package deal can save you money and ensure that you experience everything the city has to offer.
3. Explore the Best of Macau’s Attractions: While casinos and luxury shopping are the main draws, Macau also boasts a rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss the Ruins of St. Paul’s, Macau Tower, and the A-Ma Temple, which offer a glimpse into the city’s history.
4. Take Advantage of Cross-Border Travel: If you’re already in Hong Kong or Guangzhou, make use of the multiple entry visa program and cross the border into Macau with ease. The high-speed ferries and well-connected bus routes make the journey seamless, and you’ll enjoy the convenience of regular travel without the hassle of additional paperwork.
5. Time Your Visit During Off-Peak Seasons: To avoid the crowds, try to plan your trip during the shoulder seasons, such as early spring or late autumn, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists. This is also the best time to enjoy lower hotel rates and avoid the rush of Golden Week or other public holidays.

Macau hits 36.5 million visitors in 2025 — China leads the way, but will airlines and resorts be ready for the surge? As Macau’s tourism rebounds at full speed, the city is on track to surpass pre-pandemic visitor numbers, with a staggering 36.5 million expected by year-end. But with the influx of tourists, particularly from Mainland China, the question remains: Are Macau’s airlines and luxury resorts prepared to handle the surge? Get ready for a deeper dive into how this record-breaking growth is reshaping the tourism landscape and what it means for travelers looking to experience all that Macau has to offer!

Wrapping Up

With a projected 36.5 million visitors in 2025, Macau is back on track to surpass its pre-pandemic tourism numbers, making it one of the fastest-growing destinations in Asia. As tourism continues to surge, both airlines and resorts are stepping up to meet the growing demand. Mainland China’s dominance as the largest source of visitors is clear, and the demand from international markets is increasing steadily. For tourists, this means more flight options, expanded hotel choices, and an even greater variety of experiences to enjoy in Macau. Whether you’re visiting for the casinos, the luxury resorts, or the rich cultural heritage, there’s never been a better time to plan a trip to this exciting city. So pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready to experience the rejuvenated Macau—where the excitement of the past meets the innovation of the future.

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Macao and Hengqin Open Doors to Indonesian Travel Delegation Under New 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

Since 5 November 2025, the National Immigration Administration has officially designated Hengqin (Zhuhai) and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge as key ports of entry under China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy. The move marks a significant step in simplifying border-crossing procedures and promoting multi-destination tourism within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. In a strategic collaboration to leverage this new policy, the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) and the Economic Development Bureau of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin invited ten tourism representatives from the Indonesian Travel Agents Association (ASTINDO) for a five-day familiarization and exchange trip from 14 to 18 December 2025.

The initiative aims to provide Indonesian travel professionals with firsthand experience of the convenience and opportunities offered by the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, while showcasing Macao and Hengqin as complementary destinations for international travelers. The program emphasizes the development of twin-destination tourism products and the deepening of regional cooperation between Macao, Hengqin, and the Greater Bay Area.

Arrival and Exploration of Macao’s Tourism Highlights

The delegation, departing from Jakarta via Air Macau, arrived at Macau International Airport and immediately embarked on a comprehensive exploration of Macao’s tourism assets. Their itinerary covered iconic attractions such as the Historic Centre of Macao, the Macao Grand Prix Museum, MinMPlaza, Hotel Central, and the W Macau at Studio City. Delegates experienced the city’s “tourism +” appeal, which blends cultural heritage, entertainment, gastronomy, and innovative technology.

A highlight of the visit was “Light up Macao 2025,” an immersive light installation, and the multimedia spectacle “Macau 2049,” which integrates Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage with cutting-edge visual technology. Additional experiences included teamLab SuperNature Macao and a city-wide open-top bus tour, offering delegates a panoramic view of Macao’s vibrant urban landscape. Culinary exploration was equally rich, featuring Portuguese egg tart baking sessions and sampling a wide array of delicacies, from Halal cuisine to Macanese and traditional Chinese hotpot, reinforcing Macao’s reputation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.

To further promote industry collaboration, MGTO hosted a business luncheon, facilitating networking between the Indonesian delegates and local tourism stakeholders to explore potential partnerships and business opportunities.

Visa-Free Transit Experience in Hengqin

Following their stay in Macao, the delegation moved to Hengqin Port to witness the new 240-hour visa-free transit policy in action. A representative from the Public Security Police Force provided an overview of border-crossing procedures for Indonesian and international visitors, detailing the layout and operational advantages of Hengqin Port. Delegates then crossed into the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone, experiencing firsthand the ease of travel under the new measure.

In Hengqin, the itinerary included visits to prominent theme parks such as Chimelong Ocean Kingdom and Chimelong Spaceship, where the group enjoyed international circus performances and fireworks displays. Cultural attractions were also highlighted, including the Traditional Chinese Medicine Cultural Experience Museum and Sumlodol Camping Town. Delegates toured various hotels and tourism facilities to gain a comprehensive understanding of Hengqin’s rapidly expanding tourism infrastructure. The delegation concluded their five-day journey by departing from Guangzhou’s Baiyun International Airport back to Indonesia on 18 December.

Indonesia-Macao Tourism Collaboration Strengthened

Indonesia is currently Macao’s sixth-largest visitor market. Between January and October 2025, Macao welcomed 163,475 Indonesian visitors, representing a 15.5% year-on-year increase. MGTO’s active engagement with the Indonesian travel industry, including participation in ASTINDO Travel Fairs in Jakarta earlier this year and hosting the “Experience Macao Mega Sale” event in October, has solidified the relationship between the two regions.

The recent delegation visit demonstrates how Macao and Hengqin are harnessing the 240-hour visa-free transit policy to create more seamless, multi-destination travel experiences for international markets. By providing professional travel operators with direct exposure to the benefits of the policy and the full range of attractions and amenities, MGTO is laying the groundwork for the promotion of twin-destination tourism products and enhanced regional connectivity.

Future Prospects for Greater Bay Area Tourism

Looking ahead, MGTO plans to maintain close collaboration with the Public Security Police Force and regional partners across China to maximize the potential of the 240-hour visa-free transit measure. The familiarization visit underscores Macao’s commitment to becoming a world center of tourism and leisure while fostering coordinated tourism development across the Greater Bay Area. By facilitating international visitor growth and strengthening industry partnerships, Macao and Hengqin are positioning themselves as premier destinations for multi-destination tourism, catering to evolving market demands and expanding international outreach.

This initiative is not only a step forward in enhancing convenience for travelers but also a strategic move to stimulate cross-border tourism collaboration, enrich visitor experiences, and drive sustainable growth in one of Asia’s most dynamic tourism hubs.

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