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WT/TPR/W/ 184 
14 January 2021  
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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
* In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
MACAO, CHINA 
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 15 AND 17 DECEMBER 2020  
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Mrs Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later 
than 28 January 2021 . 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
MACAO, CHINE 
PROJET DE COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 15 ET 17 DÉCEMBRE 2020  
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Mme Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 28 janvier 2021  au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
MACAO, CHINA 
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 15 Y 17 DE DICIEMBRE DE 2020  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría (Sr a. Barbara Blanquart: 
barbara.blanquart@wto.org , o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 28 de enero de 2021  las 
correcciones fácticas que deseen introducir en sus propias declaraciones.  
 
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
 
MACAO, CHINA 
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr. Harald Aspelund (Iceland)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ ......................  3 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MACAO, CHINA  ..........................  5 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ...............  8 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ .......................  11 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MACAO, CHINA AND ADDITIONAL 
COMMENTS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  19 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ ........................  25 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Macao, China are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/402/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The fifth Trade Policy Review of Macao, China was held on 15 and 17 December 2020. The 
Chairperson, H.E.  Mr. Harald Aspelund (Iceland), welcomed the delegation of Macao, China, headed 
by Mr. Tai Kin Ip, Director of the Macao Economic Bureau; Dr. Tam Chon Weng, Permanent 
Representative of Macao, China to the WTO; the rest of the del egation  from Macao, China; and the 
discussant, H.E. Ambassador Margarida Rosa Da Silva Izata (Angola).  
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benefited 
from the Interprefy online connection, allowing for a wide r participation of the Membership, in 
particular of officials who could not make the journey from Macao, China given the current 
circumstances.  
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs and the main elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The report by  Macao, China is contained in document WT/TPR/G/402, and that of the WTO 
Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/402.  
1.4.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: Canada; 
China; Singapore; Republic of Korea; European Union ; Hong Kong, China; Japan; and Thailand. The 
following delegations submitted written questions after the deadline: Russian Federation; Peru; and 
Iceland.  
1.5.  1.5. At the time of its previous Review in 2013, Members had commended Macao, China for its 
open econo my with few trade and investment restrictions. It was noted that trade, in particular 
services exports, had contributed to the fast growth of the economy and to its sound fiscal situation. 
Members had appreciated the improvements made to Macao, China’s tra de policy and business 
environment, including in the areas of IPR protection; trade facilitation; enhanced foreign 
participation in, and increased transparency of, public procurement; and further services 
liberalization. Members had praised Macao, China fo r its WTO notification record and for its support 
of the multilateral trading system. At the same time, Members had observed that there was room 
for further improvement in a few areas, such as IPRs, government procurement, competition policy, 
and the appli cation of some SPS measures. Noting the high concentration of the economy on gaming 
related services, Members were had been of the view that diversification would be critical in the 
years to come.  
1.6.  The Chair then focused on developments since the previous R eview. Regarding diversification, 
as noted in the Reports, Macao, China pursued efforts to decrease its reliance on gaming. The first 
Five-Year Development Plan (2016 -20) promoted a number of service sectors, including the 
Meetings, Incentives, Conventions , and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, traditional Chinese medicine, 
cultural and creative industries, wholesale and retail trade, real estate and business activities, and 
financial sector activities. However, although the share of gaming in GDP declined from over 60% 
to some 50% during the review period, the economy continued to depend to a large extent on 
gaming revenues, which increased its vulnerability to external shocks. Partly reflecting this 
dependence, GDP growth proceeded at an uneven pace during the review period, alternating periods 
of strong growth with periods of sharp contraction. The negative impact of the COVID -19 pandemic 
on Macao, China's GDP was strongly felt, as both the gaming and the MICE industries were hit 
particularly hard.  
1.7.  Macao, Chin a is an open economy, with the value of imports and export of goods and services 
equivalent to 117% of GDP in 2019. Reflecting the strong surplus in services trade, Macao, China 
ran a structurally sizeable surplus in its balance -of-payments current account , which was equivalent 
to over 30% of GDP in 2019. Substantial fiscal surpluses were posted throughout the period under 
review; they were deposited in a Fiscal Reserve Fund, which acts as a buffer against revenue 
volatility. This provided the fiscal space necessary for the implementation of the support packages 
put in place in February and April 2020, equivalent to almost 13% of GDP, to offset the negative 
effects of COVID -19 on economic activity.  
1.8.  Macao, China is an active Member of the WTO, regularly subm itting notifications and 
participating in negotiations. During the review period, it ratified the Protocol concerning the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement. Since the last WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  Review, Macao, China had engaged in t he updating of the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement 
(CEPA) with Mainland China, and had concluded a free trade agreement with Hong Kong, China.  
1.9.  Since the last Review, Macao, China had adopted measures to further streamline customs 
procedures and fac ilitate trade. Macao, China’s openness to trade was witnessed by the fact that all 
applied tariffs had been kept at a rate of 0%. However, in contrast to this, it had bound in the WTO 
only 30.5% of its tariff lines, all at a zero rate. As the Secretariat r eport notes, this could create 
uncertainty for traders; the predictability of Macao, China’s trade regime would be enhanced by 
increasing the scope of its WTO bindings.  
1.10.   Macao, China made scant use of non -tariff measures. It did not apply any trade remedy 
measures, nor did it grant export subsidies.   
1.11.   Amid this very positive picture, a few caveats remain. For instance, Macao, China still does 
not have a comprehensive competition law, foreign participation in government procurement 
remains limited, and the adoption of international treaties administered by WIPO is slow. Members 
wished to know more about these and other issues through their discussions.  
1.12.   The Government Report highlighted that moderate economic diversification was at the core 
of Macao, China’s economic policies. It noted that Macao, China underscored its position as "One 
Centre, One Platform", as the core objective for economic development. It confirmed that Macao, 
China remained supportive of the rules -based multilateral trading system and, sim ultaneously, 
explored cooperation opportunities with neighbouring partners. It also highlighted reform efforts in 
a number of areas, including public finance, taxation, trade facilitation, financial services, and 
environmental protection.  
1.13.   Through their adv ance questions submitted for this Review, Members posed questions on, 
and showed interest in, a number of areas, including economic diversification, fiscal policy, foreign 
investment, gender issues, bilateral agreements, customs procedures and trade facili tation, tariff 
bindings, import licensing, incentives, SPS, competition policy, government procurement, 
intellectual property, energy, financial services, telecommunications and e -commerce. In total, 
Macao, China received 93 advance written questions from 11 delegations for this Review, covering 
a range of topics. Macao, China responded to all of them on 14 December 2020.  
1.14.   This meeting provided an opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of 
interest to them and of importance to the multila teral trading system. It also gave Macao, China the 
opportunity, as was the case in other reviews held recently, to update the Membership on the impact 
of COVID -19 on its economy, which Members know had been significant, and on the effect and 
follow -up of the measures it had taken in response. The Chairperson looked forward to a fruitful 
exchange.  
1.15.   He closed his introductory remarks by wishing Macao, China a very successful fifth Trade 
Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MACAO, CHINA (MR. TAI KIN IP ) 
2.1.  It is my great honour to be here today to represent Macao, China at this virtual meeting of our 
Fifth Trade Policy Review.  
2.2.  As this TPR meeting arrives at a time of history when COVID -19 has taken a toll of lives around 
the world, I would like to convey my deepest condolences to those who have lost their loved ones 
in this battle. I wish everyone to stay healthy to witness the day when the pandemic could cost no 
more loss of lives and the world resume to the daily normal within a short peri od of time.  
2.3.  At the outset, Macao, China puts high regards on the Trade Policy Review Mechanism that 
serves as an important instrument to promote transparency and predictability of Members’ trade 
policy, which is the cornerstone to the establishment of the WTO.  
2.4.  I would like to express my appreciation to Ambassador Aspelund for chairing this meeting and 
Ambassador Da Silva Izata for serving as the discussant. I would also like to thank the Members for 
submitting a total of 93 written questions on our trade p olicy. My heartfelt gratitude goes to the 
WTO Secretariat for arranging the two days’ virtual meeting during this critical time of the COVID -19 
pandemic as well as all their hard and excellent work in writing up the Secretariat report and 
translating both the Secretariat report and Government report for Macao, China. Last but not least 
is to welcome the participation of all fellow delegations in this virtual meeting to mutually support 
the orderly function of the WTO during this pressing moment.  
2.5.  Under the principle of "One Country, Two Systems" enshrined in the Basic Law, Macao, China 
enjoys a high degree of autonomy, which enables us to safeguard the free movement of goods, 
intangible assets and capital, apply no restrictions on foreign exchange and practi ce its own taxation 
system, as well as guarantees our status as a separate customs territory and a free port. Being a 
staunch supporter and practitioner of free trade, Macao, China remains one of the most open and 
freest economies in the world. Macao, Chin a adopts minimal import and export control measures, 
zero tariff, and no anti -dumping, countervailing and safeguard measures.  
2.6.  Looking back on the economic development during the review period, GDP growth in Macao, 
China generally displayed an upward trend . Despite short -term economic fluctuations, GDP grew 
from 411.9 billion patacas in 2013 to 434.7 billion patacas in 2019 with the unemployment rate 
averaged at below 2% during the same period.  
2.7.  Indeed, the economic growth of Macao, China remains largely dr iven by the tourism and 
gaming sectors, which account for more than 50% of GDP throughout the period under review. The 
growth of these two sectors were fueled by the number of inbound tourists that increased from 
29.3 million in 2013 to a record high of 39 .4 million last year.  
2.8.  Despite the sectors’ significant contributions to economic growth, the MSAR Government is 
determined to moderately diversify the economic structure by encouraging the gaming sector to 
bring in more non -gaming elements to their busine ss portfolios and nurturing non -gaming sectors 
such as the MICE sector, which is gradually gaining international recognition. The International 
Congress and Convention Association accredited 54 international meetings held in Macao, China in 
2019, giving ra nkings of 48th worldwide and 12th in the Asia -Pacific region.  
2.9.  The economic growth also empowers the MSAR Government to devote more resources to 
long-term development. In 2016, the MSAR Government announced the Five -year Development 
Plan, which serves as th e blueprint for promoting the development of economy, society, environment 
and public administration. The goal of the Development Plan is to foster the establishment of Macao, 
China as “One Centre, One Platform”, which stands for “a world tourism and leisu re center” as well 
as “a commercial and trade cooperation service platform between China and Portuguese -speaking 
countries”.  
2.10.   To reinforce social protection for our residents, the Five -Year Development Plan directs the 
establishment of a two -tier social se curity system, which has been duly completed in 2018 to provide 
better protection to the retirement life of all Macao residents. Following the urge for a better 
environment in tandem with economic development, the Five -Year Development Plan also inks on 
environmental protection in order to cultivate the MSAR as a more livable city for its residents.  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  2.11.   Macao, China remains supportive to the rules -based multilateral trading system. As an original 
Member of the WTO, Macao, China is committed to upholding the ru les-based multilateral trading 
system with an active participation in WTO affairs. During the review period, Macao, China acceded 
to and implemented the Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2016, joined the expansion of the 
Information Technology Agreement Two (ITA II) in the same year and completed the modification 
of the tariff schedule. Macao, China also actively engaged in the Structured Discussions on 
Investment Facilitation for Development during the Eleventh Ministerial Conference and joined the 
Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement this year to support the restoration of the proper 
functioning of the dispute settlement mechanism.  
2.12.   On the other hand, Macao, China continues to strengthen its regional economic and trade ties 
with neighboring econ omies. Under the framework of the “Mainland and Macao Closer Economic 
Partnership Arrangement” (CEPA), the Mainland of China and Macao, China have signed five 
subsidiary agreements since 2014 to further broaden the scope of trade liberalization between the  
two economies. In 2017, Macao, China and Hong Kong, China signed the Hong Kong -Macao CEPA, 
under which the two sides made commitments that go beyond those they made under the WTO to 
promote closer bilateral trade relations, as well as economic and technol ogical cooperation.  
2.13.   Another major step to establish regional cooperation during the review period is participating 
in the development of the Guangdong -Hong Kong -Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) along with 
Hong Kong, China and nine cities in the Guangdong Provi nce of China. Aiming to achieve coordinated 
and in -depth regional development and form a world -class city cluster with the participating cities, 
the GBA positions MSAR as “One Centre, One Platform” and a multicultural exchange and cooperation 
base with an emphasis on Chinese culture.  
2.14.   As for investment, Macao, China welcomes foreign direct investment with a simple tax regime, 
low tax rates and no restrictions on capital flows. To assist potential investors on their start -ups, the 
“One-Stop Service” provided by the MSAR Government offers professional advice on information and 
administrative procedures concerning the business environment in Macao, China. The open and 
investors -friendly regime of Macao, China has led to prominent presence of foreign investment i n 
the MSAR including key sectors such as banking and insurance, construction, gaming and hotels.  
2.15.   Macao, China not only maintains a favorable business environment for foreign investors, but 
also for local enterprises, especially SMEs, which make up 99% of t he local business sector. 
Endorsing on the crucial role of SMEs to the sustainable development of economy, the MSAR 
Government continues to provide SMEs with financial assistance such as interest -free loans, interest 
subsidies and credit guarantees to alle viate their difficulties in obtaining financing.  
2.16.   Notwithstanding the openness in our trade and investment policies, Macao, China grips on its 
regulatory mechanism by strengthening the framework on combating money laundering and 
terrorism financing. As a consequence, Macao, China was ranked among the high er tier of 
Asia/Pacific Group members with a remarkable result achieved in the assessment of the effectiveness 
outcomes in the APG evaluation, and became the first member that passed all 40 Financial Action 
Task Force Technical Compliance Recommendations i n 2019.  
2.17.   As far as tax cooperation is concerned, Macao, China is a member of the Global Forum on 
Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes. By 2019, the MSAR Government has 
signed 16 tax information exchange agreements and 13 double taxatio n agreements with other tax 
jurisdictions.  
2.18.   This year, Macao, China, like other WTO Members, is also confronted with challenges posed 
by the COVID -19 pandemic. Inbound tourists have plummeted down to an unprecedented level, 
which has severely beaten the eco nomy, particularly the tourism and gaming sector. To mitigate the 
impact on businesses and individuals, the MSAR Government launched a number of tax relief 
measures for enterprises and residents, provided financial support to SMEs, and designated an 
anti-epidemic fund to stimulate and encourage local consumption, thereby boosting the economy. 
As such, Macao, China has also fulfilled its obligation to timely notify to the WTO of the trade -related 
measures taken by the Government in relation to the pandemic.  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  2.19.   In the meantime, the MSAR Government is gearing up its efforts to battle with COVID -19 and 
stabilize the economy by shoring up the existing growth engines and exploring new opportunities 
through the participation in regional co -development initiatives.  
2.20.   Before concluding my speech, I would like to thank you again for your participation in the 
Trade Policy Review of Macao, China, and I look forward to hearing your comments and establishing 
further exchanges.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  Thank you very much for giving me the floor as the discussant in this review of Macao, China’s 
Trade Policy. I am thankful for this invitation as I believe it reflects the excellent diplomatic and 
cultural relations between the Macao Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China 
and the Republic of Angola. Angola is a member of the Permanent Secretariat of the Forum for 
Economic and Trade Cooperation between China and Portuguese -Speaking Countries, based in 
Macao.  
3.2.  It is a great pleasure for me to welcome  the delegation of Macao headed by Mr. Tai Kin Ip , 
Director of Macao’s Economic Bureau.  
3.3.  The high level of Macao’s delegation as a whole is evidence of the importance that the Macao 
authorities confer on this fifth Review of the country’s trade policies and  practices within the 
framework of the WTO. Let me thank Macao’s Representative for his brief but enlightening political 
declaration to this Body, as well as the WTO Secretariat for its comprehensive and clear report.  
3.4.  I intend to direct my comments and que stions to some chapters of the Secretariat’s report, 
and I shall start with comments on Macao’s general economic situation.  
3.5.  1. As we all know, China has sovereignty over Macao since 1999 and no amendment was made 
to its Basic Law. Bearing in mind the Basic  Law principle of "one country, two systems," the Macao 
Special Administrative Region (MSAR)  maintains its customs territories separate, the free port 
practices zero duties and, therefore, there is free movement of goods, intangible assets and capital 
whilst maintaining a freely convertible currency and an independent tax regime.  
3.6.  Within the framework of participating in a multilateral trading system  and for the sake of 
transparency, Macao, China has been sending notifications to keep members informed of va rious 
trade policy changes, measures required to mitigate the effects of COVID -19, and its ratification of 
the 2016 Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
3.7.  In the context of macroeconomic development , MSAR records indicate to major economic 
growth over the years, w ith the main sectors sector of the economy being Services (with 95.8% of 
GDP in 2018), in particular the Gaming Industry (50.5% in 2018). The Gaming Industry had 
phenomenal growth in 2013, although this was followed by a slowdown from 2014 to 2016. Other 
sectors that also aided this economic growth are Real Estate Services, Financial Services, Wholesale 
and Retail Commerce, Hotel and Restaurant Services, Rental Services, and Services provided to 
Businesses Dependent on the gaming industry.  
3.8.  MSAR should regis ter its first budget deficit in 2020 as a result of COVID -19 due to a reduction 
in gaming revenues, but financial reserves should mitigate, to a large extent, the impact on the 
economy.  
3.9.  In terms of Structural Development , the Service Sector is Macao’s main  revenue source, thus, 
MSAR promotes regional cooperation and encourages the development of emerging industries to 
diversify Macao’s economy.  
3.10.   Another development that is worth mentioning  is the “5 -year Development Plan” (or 
“Development Plan”) which aims to create a "one center, one platform" system aimed at maintaining 
economy’s stable development, optimizing the industrial structure, enhancing people’s quality of life, 
and improving education quality and environmental protection.  
3.11.   For the purpose of impro ving environmental protection , MSAR seeks better waste 
management, and air quality improvement. In waste management, it implements the principle of 
“pollutant -payer,” which consists in reducing the consumption of plastics.  
3.12.   On trade and investment policies , a Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement was signed in 
2003 between Continental China and Macao. Since 2014, five subsidiary agreements were signed, 
including the liberalization of the basis of trade in services, goods and investments.  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  3.13.   In 2016, the Foreign Trade Law  was amended to allow individuals and legal entities to use 
the ATA Carnet as the single document required to import, and cancelled export licensing 
requirements for the EU, Norway, Turkey and the United States.  
3.14.   As you know, Macao is a free po rt with minimal trade restrictions ; it has no intention to 
establish restrictions on the establishment of foreign companies as they participate in the growth of 
the economy. To ease the pressure on companies, tax incentives are offered.  
3.15.   It is important to note that Macao continues to protect holders of Intellectual Property Rights 
(IPR), especially since 2013, after signing the WIPO Copyright Treaty and another on Performances. 
More recently, in 2020, China and MSAR signed an agreement to  expand exchange and cooperation 
in the intellectual property area.  
3.16.   MSAR is currently considering adopting international regulations on the government 
procurement system , which accounts for 6.2% of GDP.  
3.17.   Since 2017, a supply chain related to cross-border e -commerce exists between Macao and 
Guangdong, thanks to best efforts by both parties. MSAR encourages electronic payments to simplify 
transactions; from 2017 to 2020, its use increased by 437.5%.  
3.18.   Since SME’s are very useful for the sustainable operation o f MSAR , the regimes that provide 
aid and financial guarantees have been strengthened. Collaboration is encouraged between SME’s 
and young entrepreneurs, not only from Macao, but also from China and Portuguese -speaking 
countries. MSAR would like to help the  commercial association of Macao’s traditional brands, thus 
promoting a modern style and encouraging competition. MSAR has also offered financial aid to SME’s 
against COVID -19. 
3.19.   In the area of transportation , a magnificent bridge opened in 2018 that now lin ks Hong -Kong, 
Macao and Zuhai. Also in 2018, phase I of the airport expansion was completed, and phase II was 
approved in 2019. In 2019, operation started on the subway line connecting the Taipa Ferry Terminal 
to Macao’s International Airport, serving the Cotai district and other Taipa areas, as well as a 
secondary line connecting the border posts of Qingmao (Guangzhou) to the Zuhai Border Gate.  
3.20.   Regarding the manufacturing industry , MSAR assigns this sector a major role in economic 
diversification. It promo tes products “ made in Macao”  and fosters the modernization and 
transformation of production. Macao’s Product Quality Certification System, launched in 2018 to 
encourage companies to adopt product quality certification to increase consumers’ trust and marke t 
competitiveness, supports the development of the industrial sector. We see an increase in the 
manufacturing sector’s gross added value as a percentage of all economic activities (from 0.4% in 
2013 to 0.6% in 2018).  
3.21.   Exporting products  made locally account ed for 11.8% of Macao’s total exports in 2019. In 
2019, MSAR officially started to implement the Kimberley Process Mechanism to certify rough 
diamonds, through the participation of the People’s Republic of China in the Kimberley Process. This 
will open the  way for the sale of rough diamonds in Macao and, consequently, development of the 
manufacturing industry.  
3.22.   In terms of tourism , the sector shows some worthy results (29.32 million tourists in 2013 and 
39.41 million in 2019). Continental China continues to be the main source of tourists. Unfortunately, 
these numbers have gone down in 2020, as a result of COVID -19. To diversify tourism products, 
MSAR plans to develop a "Global Center of Tourism and Leisure" that will foster the development of 
various products  such as leisure, cultural, and gastronomic tourism, to mention just a few.  
3.23.   As for financial services , MSAR remains vigilant regarding international financial risks to 
preserve the stability of the financial system. To this extent, the Government is doing all it can to 
strengthen financial oversight. During the first quarter of 2020, the banking sector was able to 
maintain a solid level of shareholder’s equity and good quality of assets. As far as the insurance 
sector is concerned, MSAR improved the structu re of prudential oversight on the sector and managed 
to better protect the interests of the public.  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  3.24.   We are also happy to report that in other important sectors , the number of conventions and 
trade shows had a considerable increase in Macao, from 2013 to 20 19. There is an emerging 
international recognition of this sector in Macao, and the International Congress and Convention 
Association (ICCA) reports that 54 international meetings took place in Macao in 2019, which now 
ranks in the 48th position globally, and 12th in the Asia -Pacific region.  
3.25.   As for traditional Chinese medicines, their development plays an important, albeit moderate 
role in diversifying the economy. However, this will further promote the industrialization of traditional 
Chinese medicines, e stablish rules and regulations, and expand regional cooperation in these 
products. Macao continues to introduce these medicines in Africa’s Portuguese -speaking countries.  
3.26.   Its massive growth is unquestionably due to its open and liberal trade regime, as it continues 
to attract foreign investments. It is therefore expected that Macao will continue to support a 
multilateral trade system in its future trade policy.  
3.27.   Like many other countries around the world, as a result of COVID -19, Macao now faces an 
econom ic crisis  that is without precedent. MSAR has, however, implemented measures to repair and 
stabilize the economy. Due to its previous experience in fighting against economic recession, Macao 
is ready to face these challenges, while continuing to be vigilan t and mitigate their impact on the 
economy. In particular, measures to increase financial stability help support internal demand, 
increase infrastructure investments, and build stability and financial reserves.  
3.28.   Regarding the questions and comments made by  the Members1, points were raised regarding 
the Economic Environment  (Economy’s Main Characteristics; Tax Policies; Commercial Rules; 
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)). For example, plans to increase, maintain or reduce fiscal support 
to mitigate the effec ts of COVID -19; intended measures to implement the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement  (TFA) in response to the COVID -19 pandemic; improvements made to the clearance and 
release system after TFA ratification; TFA requirements not complied with through the FDI sys tem, 
to name a few.  
3.29.   Various Members also requested clarification on s pecific measures and specific sectors . 
Regarding intellectual property rights, for example, questions were raised regarding the timeline for 
review of the Industrial Property Code ; which authority a holder of IP rights should address in case 
of patent disputes; administrative and criminal remedies for copyright, trade secrets and other 
industrial property matters.  
3.30.   Questions were also asked on sanitary and phytosanitary standards , includin g measures 
related to COVID -19, plans for regulatory initiatives with impact on trade, agriculture, forestry, or 
aquatic products; application of regionalization principles in case of animal disease outbreaks; legal 
and scientific justification for restric tions on importing food products from the Fukushima prefecture.  
3.31.   Chair, we hope to have been comprehensive in our presentation which we conclude here to 
allow other delegations to ask their questions and share their ideas about the situation in Macao, 
China always having in mind that some of the questions raised have already been answered.  
3.32.   Thank you for your attention and, once again, thank you Macao, China for the presentation 
and for giving Angola this opportunity.  
  
 
1 Canada; China;  Republic of Korea;  Hong Kong , China; Iceland; Japan; the Russian Federation;  
Singapore; Thailand;  the European Union . WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
CANADA  
4.1.  I join my fellow WTO Members in welcoming Mr. Tai Kin Ip and his delegation to Geneva and 
in thanking the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Margarida Rosa Da Silva Izata for her thoughtful 
remarks.  
4.2.  Canada applauds Macao, China for its commitment to open trade and str ong support of the 
rules-based multilateral trading system, and progress in implementing reforms since its last Review 
in 2013.  
4.3.  Macao, China’s commitment to open trade and support for the rules -based multilateral system 
has been shown by its ratification of the Agreement on Trade Facilitation (TFA) in 2016 and adoption 
of facilitating measures, and its ratification of the Protocol Amending the Agreement on 
Trade -Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) the following year. Macao, China, has 
further endorsed the Multi -Party Interim Appeal -Arbitration Arrangement to safeguard binding 
two-stage WTO dispute settlement between MPIA participants.  
4.4.  Furthermore, Macao, China’s WTO notifications record is very good. Through its consistent 
reporting, Mac ao, China is supporting the WTO’s monitoring function and the ability of other 
Members to understand its policy actions.  
4.5.  We would like to thank Macao, China for its inclusion of MSME -related information in its 
Government report. The voluntary provision of  this information is an important contribution that 
supports analysis and discussion of MSME -related issues in WTO Councils and Committee. We also 
encourage Macao, China to consider participating in the joint statement initiatives on services 
domestic regu lation and e -commerce, and to support the Joint Declaration on Trade and Women’s 
Economic Empowerment.  
4.6.  Notable reforms implemented during the review period have included the enhancement of an 
IT-based customs clearance system and the simplification of cust oms procedures for goods under 
the agreement between Macao, China and Mainland China.  
4.7.  However, despite progress, Macao, China has room to deepen reforms, in part to deal with 
vulnerabilities that were exacerbated by the COVID -19 pandemic. The pandemic has affected all 
WTO members, but has had a severe impact on Macao, China. However, Macao, China experienced 
uneven economic growth in recent years even before the pandemic hit due to its overreliance on the 
services sector, which makes up 95% of its GDP. In t hat regard, Canada fully supports Macao, 
China’s goal of moderate diversification.  
4.8.  We would like to highlight three priority areas of reform that that could support these efforts.   
4.9.  First, further efforts to strengthen the rule of law and clarify laws and regulations in key areas 
would create a more predictable business environment and would help Macao, China to attract new 
kinds of businesses.  
4.10.   Second, Canada encourages the Government of Macao, China to put in place open and 
competitive government procurem ent procedures for major public works. We also encourage Macao, 
China to seek observer status on the WTO Committee on Government Procurement.  
4.11.   Finally, I note that Macao, China is well -placed to pursue further economic development and 
trade and economic di versification through opportunities provided by the Framework Agreement on 
Deepening Guangdong -Hong Kong -Macao Cooperation for the Development of the Greater Bay Area 
(GBA). We look forward to learning more about how further GBA integration will impact Mac ao, 
China’s business regulations and trade policies.  
4.12.   We have submitted written questions that reflect some of the issues raised today. We wish 
Macao, China a very successful Trade Policy Review and I look forward to a constructive exchange 
of views on all  aspects of Macao, China’s trade policy.  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  CHINA  
4.13.   First of all, I would like to join others in welcoming the delegation of Macao, China led by 
Director Tai Kin Ip and express our appreciation to the Secretariat for the comprehensive Report. 
Our gratitude also  goes to the discussant, Ambassador Margarida Rosa Da Silva Izata of Angola for 
the insightful observations over the trade policies of Macao, China.  
4.14.   Despite of the negative impact of global economic slowdown and uncertain trade environment, 
we are pleased to see that the economy of Macao, China has made notable achievements since the 
last Trade Policy Review in 2013. Macao, China has kept to be an open  economy, with the value of 
trade equivalent to 117.1% of GDP in 2019. The merchandise exports increased at an average rate 
of 6.5%, reaching USD 1.59 billion in 2019. At the same time, it is notable that with its economic 
diversification policy, and the m easures it has taken to nurture the emerging industries, the 
proportion of gaming industry in total gross value added has declined from 63.1% in 2013 to 50.5% 
in 2018. We believe its setting up of “One Centre, One Platform” (that is the World Centre of Tou rism 
and Leisure, the Commercial and Trade Cooperation Service Platform between China and 
Portuguese -speaking Countries) and conjoining with the “Belt and Road” Initiative will help Macao, 
China to achieve the economic diversification objective and long -term prosperity.  
4.15.   Besides, we appreciate Macao, China’s firm commitments to the multilateral trading system 
and resistance to the unilateralism and protectionism. It is impressive for the efforts taken by Macao, 
China to ensure its trade policy to be compliant with WTO rule s and its active participation in WTO 
initiatives, in particular by the fact that it subscribed to the Joint Ministerial Statement on Investment 
Facilitation for Development and the Multi Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement, and also 
its early rat ification of Trade Facilitation Agreement and the Protocol Amending the TRIPS 
Agreement.  
4.16.   From the view of bilateral front, the development of Macao, China is closely tied up with that 
of the mainland. Since last review, a close trading and economic relati onship has been kept between 
us through the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) and its subsidiary agreements. For 
future, Macao has been designated as one of the key cities of the Guangdong -Hong Kong -Macao 
Greater Bay Area. We encourage Macao, China to seize the opportunities brought by the Belt and 
Road Initiative and the Greater Bay Area development, and made good use of its sound business 
environment and well -developed market, which will not only provide more opportunities for 
prosperity of M acao, China, but also bring new vitalities to all other members.  
4.17.   To conclude, we want to thank Macao, China for the written replies to our questions and wish 
this Review a complete success.  
SINGAPORE  
4.18.   The Singapore delegation warmly welcomes Mr. Tai Kin Ip,  Director, Macao Economic Bureau 
and his delegation who are participating virtually. We thank Macao, China for its Government Report 
and statement. We also thank the TPRB Chair Ambassador Harald Aspelund, the Secretariat, and 
the discussant Ambassador Marg arida Rosa Da Silva Izata of Angola for their invaluable insights.  
4.19.   At the outset, I wish to convey my advance best wishes on the occasion of the 21st 
anniversary of the establishment of the Macao Special Administrative Region. This is a milestone for 
Macao, China which falls on this coming Sunday, 20 December 2020. My delegation also wishes to 
commend Macao, China for supporting this virtual TPR, which had to be rescheduled from July 2020 
due to the Covid -19 pandemic. It is critical that the monitoring pil lar continues to function despite 
the constraints posed by the Covid -19 pandemic, and this TPR is a testament to the WTO’s resilience 
as well as Macao, China’s commitment to the WTO. Allow me to highlight three points.  
4.20.   First, Singapore applauds Macao, Chin a for its strong support of the rules -based multilateral 
trading system as embodied in the WTO. Macao, China has adopted a policy that promotes a free 
and open trade environment. During the period of review, Macao, China has ratified the Trade 
Facilitation  Agreement and the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement. As noted in the Secretariat 
report, Macao, China regularly submits up -to-date notifications concerning matters covered under 
the WTO Agreements, with active participation in negotiations such as tho se on information 
technology. Furthermore, even though Macao, China has not been involved either as a complainant, WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  respondent or third party in any WTO dispute, it joined the Multi -party Interim Appeal Arbitration 
Arrangement in September 2020. This is a c lear demonstration of the systemic importance that 
Macao, China accords to the continued availability of an independent and impartial appeal stage in 
the WTO dispute settlement mechanism.  
4.21.   Second, Singapore welcomes Macao, China’s efforts to diversify and modernize its economy 
beyond gaming. This has become even more pertinent as a result of the challenges posed by the 
ongoing pandemic to international travel. Indeed, this focus is clearly reflected in the extensive use 
of the word “diversify”, which appear ed 13 times in the Government Report and 37 times in the 
Secretariat Report. Being conscious of its great dependence on a single industry, Macao, China had 
issued its first Five -Year Development Plan in 2016, with a roadmap towards economic 
diversification . This involved the promotion of not just inter -sectoral diversification away from 
gambling, but also intra -sectoral diversification. As a result, Macao, China has devoted efforts to 
promote other key focus industries such as financial services, convention s and exhibitions and even 
traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs), including the introduction of TCMs to Portuguese -speaking 
countries in Africa. While the pandemic has posed great uncertainties and challenges, Singapore is 
encouraged by the pledge in the co ncluding part of the Government Report that Macao, China will 
spare no effort to promote economic diversification as the cornerstone of its sustainable economic 
development.  
4.22.   Third, I would like to draw attention to an area which can further buttress Macao,  China’s 
participation in the WTO. Given the importance that Macao, China accords to non -discrimination, 
predictability and transparency as important elements for a stable multilateral system, Singapore 
would encourage Macao, China to participate in the Go vernment Procurement Agreement (GPA). In 
fact, Macao, China has indicated in the Secretariat Report that their procurement procedures and 
disciplines are consistent with international standards. That being the case, Singapore invites Macao, 
China to favour ably consider joining initially as an observer, with the view to eventually acceding to 
the GPA.  
4.23.   To conclude, we wish Macao, China every success for this TPR.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.24.   We would like to join the previous speakers in extending a warm welcome to the  delegation 
of Macao, China for its fifth Trade Policy Review, and especially thank Mr. Tai Kin IP for his 
comprehensive presentation. My special thanks also go to Ambassador Da Silva Izata for her 
contribution as a discussant and to the Secretariat for it s informative report.  
4.25.   First of all, Korea would like to commend the government’s efforts to diversify the economy, 
which is heavily dependent on gaming industries. Under the first Five -Year Development Plan 
(2016 -20), Macao, China has strived to grow such industries as wholesale and retail, hotels, food 
and beverages, construction, and finance.  
4.26.   In addition to such concerted policies to diversify its economy, Macao, China has actively 
implemented comprehensive fiscal and welfare policies to cope with the ec onomic challenges posed 
by the Covid -19. We hope those policy measures will be effectively mitigating the negative impacts 
of the pandemic on the economy and also will be executed in a manner that is temporary, targeted 
and that doesn’t serve as a barrier to trade and investment.  
4.27.   We appreciate that Macao, China is a very open economy, with the share of trade in GDP 
being almost 117% in 2019.  
4.28.   With regard to the policies on foreign investment, we welcome the government’s measure in 
2012 to remove the require ment that exporters should exchange 40% of their foreign currency 
earnings into local currency. We also note that investors also benefit from the services and structures 
provided by the Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM), namely the Inve stor's 
One-Stop Service. We hope the Macao’s FDI regime will be even more open, transparent, and 
effective through such measures.  
4.29.   Trade facilitation is another area the Macao, China has seen lots of improvements in the last 
reporting period. Areas of enhan cement include the ratification of Trade Facilitation Agreement(TFA), WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  the enhancement of an IT -based customs clearance system; the simplification of customs 
procedures for goods under the agreement between Macao, China and Mainland China.  
4.30.   On tariffs, unli ke its generally liberalized trade and investment regime, only 30% of total tariff 
lines are bound. So, as pointed out by the Secretariat’s report, we encourage the Government to 
bind significantly more tariff lines for the sake of legal predictability and  stability of its trading 
system.  
4.31.   With regard to the “Greater Bay Area” Development plan, we hope that government of Macao, 
China will further introduce measures that allow foreign companies to participate in construction or 
engineering projects for infras tructures that Macao has ordered publicly.  
4.32.   Moreover, we encourage the Government of Macao, China to adopt a comprehensive 
competition law, and establish a dedicated competition enforcement agency in order to further 
strengthen consumer's rights and protec t fair competition. Besides, as an original member of the 
WTO, we would like to encourage Macao, China to keep up the good work of simplifying, updating, 
and improving the government procurement procedures, in consistent with the international 
standard, an d consider joining the GPA in the long -run.    
4.33.   Lastly, with regard to trade and gender, we would appreciate if Macao, China could provide 
statistics on economic participation rate of women, and how women -led SMEs are benefitting from 
various SME -related su pport measures by the Government. If more women could participate in 
economic development, and global trade, the overarching objective of government to diversify its 
economy will be achieved more effectively and efficiently.  
4.34.   Korea and Macao, China have be en developing a strong bilateral economic relationship since 
the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1980s. We have maintained close economic ties, with 
bilateral trade volume reaching USD 42 million.  
4.35.   Korea hopes that its economic partnership with Ma cao, China will continue to expand and 
develop.  
4.36.   Korea would like to highlight the efforts that Macao, China has made since the last review to 
make the overall trading environment more efficient. We therefore wholeheartedly encourage 
Macao, China to keep m oving in the direction of facilitating trade and investment and improving the 
overall economic environment in a sustainable manner.  
4.37.   Korea looks forward to continuing its cooperation with Macao, China to enhance opportunities 
for trade and investment which  will, in turn, promote Macao, China’s economic growth.  
4.38.   I would like to conclude by expressing my deep appreciation to the delegation of Macao, China 
for its hard work and wishing the delegation every success in this TPR.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.39.   I would first like to welcome the delegation of Macao, China led by Mr. Tai Kin Ip (Director, 
Macao Economic Bureau). Let me extend my appreciation to the discussant, H.E. Ms. Margarida Rosa 
Da Silva Izata (Ambassador of Angola) for her insightful comments and to the WT O Secretariat and 
Macao, China for their respective reports.  
4.40.   As the Secretariat's report notes, Macao, China is a very open economy, with the value of 
trade in goods and services equivalent to 117.1% of its GDP in 2019. It also applies the principle of 
free trade, with all the tariffs kept at a rate of 0% according to the report.  
4.41.   2020 has been a challenging year for all of us, and I would like to start by congratulating the 
authorities of Macao, China for being able to keep the Covid -19 pandemic entirely u nder control in 
the Special Administrative Region (SAR) thanks to quickly implemented containment measures.  
4.42.   Sadly, in Macao, China like in many other economies, the pandemic and the related health 
and travel restrictions came at a significant economic cos t. Because of the importance of the gaming WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  and tourism sectors, the impact of the interrupted flow of people has been significant and pushed 
Macao, China into a second consecutive year of recession, but deeper this time than last year.  
4.43.   As highlighted in the Secretariat's report, the authorities have implemented support measures 
for the economy and the population worth roughly 12% of GDP, while at the same time Macao, 
China’s fiscal position has remained sound.  
4.44.   Despite this support, feed back from EU companies in the SAR is that the situation remains 
challenging.  
4.45.   The economic downturn also shows that Macao, China needs to keep up its efforts in 
diversifying its economy. To strengthen the resilience from external shocks, promoting industri es 
that rely less on tourist flows is crucial.  
4.46.   Macao, China’s authorities are well aware and have been pursuing the promotion of the 
Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, traditional Chinese medicine, 
cultural and creative in dustries, wholesale and retail trade, real estate and business activities, and 
financial sector activities. Despite these efforts, gaming still accounts for about half of the GDP, 
according to the Secretariat’s report.  
4.47.   The Government of Macao, China also s ees the Hong Kong -Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), 
as a major opportunity to diversify and strengthen integration with China (and Hong Kong, China). 
In this regard, the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement with Mainland China and with 
Hong Kong, China also  grants preferential access to goods and services from Macao, China.  
4.48.   The EU – and our companies in the field – are interested in the economic and business 
opportunities offered by the GBA and CEPAs. However, we also would like to point out a lack of 
clarity and visibility on how the GBA will concretely take shape and in terms of how foreign 
businesses would actually benefit best from the plan. We would welcome additional information from 
Macao, China on these points.  
4.49.   The GBA also raises questions in terms  of how to bring together three different economic, 
legal, tax, and customs systems and preserve the uniqueness and competitive advantages of the 
two SARs of Macao, China and Hong Kong, China.  
4.50.   The EU is and will remain a key partner of Macao, China. Even during this very challenging 
time for the world economy and for global trade, the EU remained the second largest trading partner 
in goods of Macao, China. Our bilateral trade has also been steadily growing in the past years.  
4.51.   One potential area of interest is procurement and infrastructure works. While the EU 
understands that Macao, China considers that its procurement regime is in line with international 
standards, we can only strongly encourage – once again – Macao, China to join the WTO’s GPA. This 
would provide more certainty to foreign businesses, ensure that all government procurement 
processes are run on an open and non -discriminatory basis in the future, and allow more EU and 
other foreign companies to contribute to the local economy.  
4.52.   The rule of law , an independent judiciary and protection of human rights are an integral 
element in ensuring long -term stability, which in turn provides a positive climate for international 
business and trade. The continued application of the “one country, two systems” p rinciple in Macao, 
China is a critical factor in this regard.  
4.53.   In closing, the EU continues to value the close work with Macao, China, as well as with the 
other WTO partners, to strengthen and build on the WTO’s rules -based system.  
4.54.   On behalf of the EU, I wish Macao, China a very productive and successful Trade Policy Review.  
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.55.   I would like to extend a warm welcome to Macao, China’s delegation led by Mr. Tai Kin Ip, 
the Director of Macao Economic Bureau. I would also like to thank the discus sant, Ambassador Da WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  Silva Izata, for sharing with us her insights, and the Secretariat for preparing the comprehensive 
report.  
4.56.   Hong Kong, China (HKC) cherishes our close relationship and cooperation in various aspects 
with Macao, China. Among other things,  our trade and economic ties are strong and substantial. In 
2019, HKC was the second largest trading partner of Macao, China, and our total bilateral trade 
exceeded USD 7.9 billion in value.  
4.57.   Another example of our close ties is the Closer Economic Partners hip Arrangement between 
the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Macao Special Administrative Region, which 
entered into force in October 2017, with the relevant liberalization measures in trade in goods and 
services started to be implemented in Jan uary 2018.  
4.58.   We are pleased to note Macao, China’s commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading 
system through maintaining the consistency of its trade measures and practices with WTO rules, 
formulating and implementing its trade policies with the aim of promoting a free and open trade 
environment, and upholding its support to the further liberalization of global trade. We appreciate 
such commitment especially at a time when protectionism and unilateralism are on the rise in 
international trade.  
4.59.   I woul d like to highlight three specific areas in Macao, China’s trade policies, namely trade 
facilitation, investment facilitation and services.  
4.60.   On trade facilitation, we are pleased to note that Macao, China introduced the e -Customs 
Services Web System in 2013  and mobile application in 2016 to provide online application for 
declarations and licenses, offering users enhanced experience in completing customs procedures. 
Paperless clearance is now available in every cargo terminal in Macao, China. We commend Macao , 
China’s continued efforts in simplifying and modernizing its customs procedures in response to a 
rapidly changing trade environment.  
4.61.   On investment facilitation, Macao, China actively supports the Joint Statement Initiative on 
Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD). In particular, it co -sponsored the Joint Ministerial 
Statements in Buenos Aires in 2017 and in Shanghai in 2019. HKC looks forward to working closely 
with Macao, China and other like -minded Members to develop the framework on IFD so that  we can 
work towards a concrete outcome at MC 12.  
4.62.   Lastly, on services, we note that the sector is of growing importance to Macao, China’s 
economy, accounting for 90% of both its GDP and its employment. We encourage Macao, China to 
continue its effort to pu rsue progressive liberalization in trade in services, so as to facilitate its 
economic diversification and sustainable development.  
4.63.   HKC will continue to build on our strong ties with Macao, China to further deepen our bilateral 
economic and trade cooperati on for mutual benefits. We thank Macao, China for its replies to our 
written questions and wish Macao, China a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
THAILAND  
4.64.   Thailand welcomes this opportunity to participate in the 5th Trade Policy Review of Macao, 
China. W e warmly welcome Mr. Tai Kin Ip, Director of Macao Economic Bureau, and his delegation 
to this virtual TPR. We would like to thank the Government of Macao, China and the WTO Secretariat 
and for their high -quality reports as well as the discussant, Ambassad or Margarida Rosa Da Silva 
Izata of Angola for her insightful observations, and you, Chair, for your opening remarks.  
4.65.   The opportunity to review the trade policies of Macao, China is a demonstration of the WTO’s 
fundamental principle of transparency. Thailand, as always, attaches great importance to this 
exercise.  
4.66.   Thailand and Macao, China have enjoyed growing bilateral tr ade and cooperation at all levels. 
For instance, in 2010, the Thai Chamber of Commerce in Macao, China was established to promote 
economic relations between our two countries. We believe that our trade relationship will be further 
strengthened through the strong connection among Thai and Macao, China businesses.  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  4.67.   In view of bilateral trade, we are pleased to highlight that Thailand is the largest supplier of 
rice and seafood for Macao, China. In 2019, total trade between the two countries amounted to 
USD 37 million, increasing by 15% since the last review in 2013. Thailand is confident that open and 
transparent trade regimes of our two countries will lead to further growth in our bilateral trade in 
the future.  
4.68.   Now we would like to turn to our observations on some specific areas in Macao, China’s trade 
policies.   
4.69.   Macao, China has continued to maintain a very open economy, with zero percent of all applied 
tariffs, and increase its strength as a service exporter. We appreciate the Government’s consistent 
efforts  in diversifying its economy, including facilitating the development of non -gaming sectors to 
reduce vulnerability to external factors.  
4.70.   Thailand highly commends Macao, China for showing its commitment to the rules -based 
multilateral trading system and upho lding its support to the further liberalization of world trade. We 
congratulate Macao, China on joining the expansion of the Information Technology Agreement in 
2016 to promote global ICT trade and investment.  
4.71.   We commend Macao, China’s active engagement i n the WTO work, including by ratifying the 
Trade Facilitation Agreement, accepting the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement, submitting 
up-to-date notifications, and subscribing to the joint Ministerial Statement on Investment Facilitation 
for Development . 
4.72.   Nevertheless, even though Macao, China remains a very open economy and continues to 
retain its status as free port, its tariff binding remains restricted. We, therefore, encourage Macao, 
China to consider expanding tariff binding coverage in order to ens ure predictability of its trade 
regime.  
4.73.   In this review, Thailand has sought clarity on a number of measures of our interests such as 
Macao, China’s efforts on promoting e -commerce, the implementation of the Closer Economic 
Partnership Arrangement, and the Subsidy Program for Macao China’s Cultur al and Creative 
Industries. Thailand thanks Macao, China in advance for written responses.  
4.74.   To conclude, we wish the delegation of Macao, China every success for this TPR.  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.75.   I would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of Macao, China. We appreciate the 
comprehensive reports by the Government and the WTO Secretariat. Our thanks also go to the 
discussant, H.E. Ms. Margarida Rosa Da Silva Izata, for her thoughtful remarks. We hope that this 
TPR would contribute significantly to the transparency of the trade regime of Macao.  
4.76.   We would like to commend the Government of Macao for carrying out effective trade and 
investment policies that ensured solid economic performance and resilience of its economy with the 
annual average GDP growth at  5.4% in 2018 and 4.7 in 2019. It seems that the Government was 
relatively successful at addressing the COVID -19 challenges with timely and effective interventions 
that allowed minimizing economic impact of the pandemic. We welcome Macao’s continued 
commit ment to the multilateral trading system, the ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement 
in April 2016 and submission of several notifications in a number of areas.  
4.77.   Russia has submitted a number of written questions related to issues of investment, 
competition rules and state support. We thank the delegation of Macao for the replies.  
4.78.   In conclusion, we would like to thank you, Mr. Chairman, the delegation of Macao, the 
Secretariat and the discussant, for the impressive work done so far and wish Macao a successful 
Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  ICELAND  
4.79.   Iceland welcomes Mr. Tai Kin Ip, Director of the Macao Economic Bureau and the distinguished 
delegation to their fifth trade policy review – and we express appreciation to the WTO Secretariat, 
as well as to Macao C hina, for the reports prepared for this trade policy review, as well as the 
discussant, Ambassador Ms. Margarida Rosa Da Silva Izata from Angola for her excellent framing of 
the issues for our discussion today.  
4.80.   Macao, China has one of the highest per capit a incomes in the world. During 2020 Macao, 
China has experienced strong negative impact of COVID -19 on GDP. Both the gaming and the MICE 
industries were hit particularly hard by the COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.81.   As the impact of the COVID -19 pandemic are still unfold ing, new challenges arise related to 
trade and trade -related activities. It is now widely recognized that women are likely to be harder hit 
than men by trade disruptions caused by the pandemic.  
4.82.   In September 2020, a group of WTO members agreed to establish  an Informal Working Group 
on Trade and Gender, marking the next phase of an initiative kickstarted in 2017 to increase the 
participation of women in trade.  
4.83.   The trade policy review provides an excellent opportunity to share best practices of respective 
experiences relating to policies and programs to encourage women's participation in national and 
international trade and thus promoting sustainable socioeconomic development.  
4.84.   Iceland submitted advance written questions on the participation of women in the e conomy 
of Macao, China. The answers will be useful as we gather best practices.  
4.85.   Iceland appreciates Macao China’s active engagement in WTO and their continued support for 
the multilateral trading system. We wish the delegation of Macao China every success for their fifth 
Trade Policy Review.  
INDIA  
4.86.   My delegation is pleased to participate in the 5th Trade Policy Review of Macao, China. On 
behalf of India, I would like to welcome the delegation of Macao, China led by Mr. Tai Kin Ip, Director 
of the Macao Econo mic Bureau and Dr. Tam Chon Weng, Permanent Representative of the Macao 
Special Administrative Region to the WTO. We thank Director Tai for his comprehensive opening 
statement, Ambassador H.E. Ms. Margarida Rosa Da Silva Izata of Angola, for her insightful  
observations as a discussant, and the Secretariat and the Government of Macao, China for the 
reports prepared for the Review.  
4.87.   India notes Macao, China’s continued growth and rising incomes during the period under 
review and its efforts to diversify its economy by developing non -gaming services like conventions 
and exhibitions, cultural and creative industries, traditional medicine and commercial and trade 
services.  
4.88.   India and Macao, China enjoy cordial relations and expanding economic engage ment. The 
bilateral trade has grown to USD 20 million in 2019. In January 2012, both sides concluded a Tax 
Information Exchange Agreement enabling the two countries to provide mutual assistance for 
enforcement of domestic tax laws through effective exchang e of information including banking 
information. Macao, China has been promoting tourism from India and during 2019, Indian tourists 
were the 5th largest, with close to 130,000 tourist arrivals.  
4.89.   India looks forward to enhanced bilateral cooperation with Ma cao, China in areas of common 
interest and we wish our friends from Macao a successful TPR.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MACAO, CHINA AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  First of all, I would like to thank Ambassador Aspelund for his excellent chairmanship during 
the meeting and our discussant, Ambassador Da Silva Izata, for her insightful remarks on Macao, 
China’s economy and trade policies.  
5.2.  I would also like to thank al l fellow delegations for your participation in our TPR meeting to 
present with your comments and views. Your input meant to be invaluable for the MSAR Government 
in evaluating our trade policies. Allow me also to express my sincere gratitude to the Secreta riat for 
the impeccable arrangements to make this meeting happened, even under such a challenging 
situation.  
5.3.  Having responded to all the advance written questions, I would like to focus on issues that 
have drawn particular interest from Members.  
Economic d iversification and regional cooperation  
5.4.  Macao, China has been pursuing moderate economic diversification with a view to building up 
economic resilience to external shocks. The impact of COVID -19 on the local economy reflects the 
pressing need for the MSAR to diversify its economic structure. The MSAR Government is now 
stepping up its efforts on nurturing sectors which show promising growth potential, such as financial 
services, MICE and traditional Chinese medicine, among others.  
5.5.  With respect to regional co operation, CEPA was further enhanced during the period under 
review with the signing of its subsidiary agreements. The CEPA Agreement on Trade in Goods, 
implemented on 1 January 2019, establishes the rules of origin for all tariff lines of the Mainland of 
China, and further elevates the level of customs clearance facilitation for trade in goods, so as to 
foster the development of Macao, China's manufacturing industry and promote the movement of 
goods between the two places.  
5.6.  On the front of Trade in Services , the Agreement Concerning Amendment to the CEPA 
Agreement on Trade in Services, implemented on 1 June 2020, expands the scope of liberalization 
with respect to legal, finance, accounting, telecommunications, construction and engineering, 
distribution, edu cation, tourism and cultural services, among others. To propel the development of 
the GBA and assist moderate diversification of Macao, China’s economy, the Agreement also 
underpins a number of service liberalization measures that will be implemented on a pilot basis in 
the GBA, thereby encourages the engagement of the business sectors of the MSAR in the GBA 
market.  
5.7.  Apart from the CEPA and the GBA, Macao, China also seeks to strengthen ties with Portuguese 
speaking countries and the participating countries  under the “Belt and Road” Initiatives. Meanwhile, 
Macao, China will not exclude itself from the opportunities of establishing other mutually beneficial 
regional partnerships.  
Trade policies and practices by measure  
5.8.  As stipulated in the Basic Law, Macao, C hina pursues the policy of free trade and maintains, 
with certainty, its free port status with zero tariff. Apart from such certainty, Macao, China is also 
committed to providing greater trade facilitation measures with the ratification of the TFA in 2016 
and implementation of all of its provisions in 2019, accompanied by the expansion of the coverage 
of e-Customs services, launching of an IT -based customs clearance system, and enhancement of 
the EDI system.  
5.9.  Customs procedures have been further streamlined.  Not only that paperless clearance services 
have covered basically all forms of import and export, but the MSAR Government also endeavours 
to explore Single Window connectivity with the Mainland of China to further facilitate customs 
procedures after its i mposition in November 2019. In connection with the huge and acute local 
demand for consumption and production of personal protective equipment due to COVID -19, the 
MSAR Government has responded promptly by adopting appropriate measures to facilitate the 
smooth entry of the relevant products.  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  5.10.   Trade restrictions have been maintained at a minimal level. Licensing regime is applied on 
goods mainly for health, safety, environmental and public security reasons. Indeed, all the TBT and 
SPS measures in place are ba sed on international standards and guidelines, and have been duly 
notified to the WTO in fulfilment of transparency obligations.  
Competition  
5.11.   With regard to Members’ concern on Macao, China’s competition policy, hereby I would like 
to reiterate that Macao,  China’s current competition regulation framework is appropriate for ensuring 
fair competition in Macao, China’s economic activities. Civil lawsuits can be filed against acts of unfair 
competition as defined in the Commercial Code to seek sanctions or reme dial measures. Certain 
sector -specific competition provisions are in place for sectors such as gaming, telecommunications 
and financial services, to supervise the competition in respect of their specific conditions.  
5.12.   To protect the economic interests of con sumers from unfair business practices, the existing 
Consumer Protection Law is currently under detail review by the Legislative Assembly after getting 
the general approval. In addition to revision of the legal framework, the MSAR Government has also 
establ ished inter -departmental task forces in conducting price surveys to ensure fair competition by 
enhancing price transparency of products in concern.  
Government Procurement  
5.13.   A number of questions have been raised on Macao, China’s government procurement regim e. 
The current government procurement regime provides the conditions for global tenders, in which 
foreign bidders will be treated equally with local bidders, especially for projects with high technical 
complexity.  
5.14.   In view of the changing market situation, the MSAR Government is formulating a new 
government procurement law that will better suit the economy nowadays while complying with 
international standards. After taking into account of the comments received from public and intra -
government consultations h eld between 2018 and 2020, the bill is currently under redrafting and 
will proceed with the legislative procedures in 2021.  
Intellectual Property Rights  
5.15.   In the context of IPR, the application of the WIPO Copyright Treaty and the WIPO 
Performances and Phono grams Treaty has been extended to Macao, China during the period under 
review. In addition, the MSAR Government is currently studying the feasibility of enhancing the 
industrial property regime by streamlining the administrative procedures and introducing more 
electronic services.  
5.16.   As regards IPR enforcement, the Macao Customs Service is stepping up efforts to combat IPR -
related crimes in cooperation with enforcement agencies in the neighbouring areas and also with the 
support of information technology tools. Copyrights, trade secrets and other industrial property 
violations are subject to civil law remedies, which include prohibition of the continuation of the 
practice and compensation of damages, or criminal law remedies such as imprisonment  and fine in 
Macao, China.  
Sectoral policies and other issues  
5.17.   Being a small and open economy, Macao, China generally maintains no restrictions on foreign 
investment. However, licensing requirements are imposed on certain sectors such as finance, 
insurance, and banking, while investment in gaming and public services is subject to concession 
from the Government.  
5.18.   Given the pivotal role of the tourism sector in the economy, Macao, China attaches great 
importance to fostering its healthy and sustainabl e development. To this end, the MSAR Government 
is revising the sector’s legislation to provide a sounder regulatory framework for the hotel industry, 
travel agencies and tour guides.  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  5.19.   To assist the tourism sector to recover from the heavy setback caused by  the COVID -19 
pandemic, the MSAR Government works closely with the private sectors to conduct extensive 
promotional programs to attract visitors from regions where the pandemic has been brought under 
control.  
5.20.   Developing financial services is an integral pa rt of Macao, China’s economic diversification 
strategy. Priority is given to financial leasing, which could provide a financing alternative to local 
SMEs on one hand, and a promising growth prospect in overseas markets such as 
Portuguese -speaking countries  and Belt and Road Initiative participating countries on the other.  
5.21.   Supporting SMEs is another major economic diversification strategy of Macao, China. Apart 
from financial support, the MSAR Government has also introduced various non -financial support 
measures to enhance their competitiveness. To assist SMEs in embracing the digital age, the MSAR 
Government encourages and supports them to apply prevailing digital technologies in daily 
operations, such as making use of electronic payment systems, exploring new market through cross 
border e -commerce platforms and employing mobile network technologies. Other non -financial 
measures include rebranding assistance, support for participation in trade shows, and online and 
offline promotion campaigns, among others.  
5.22.   With respect to some Members’ concern on women empowerment in Macao, China, while the 
economic and trade policies in Macao, China are gender neutral, the MSAR Government continues 
to pay more attention to promote women’s effective participation in the work force. For instance, the 
revised Labour Relations Law has extended women’s maternity leave and introduced a paternity 
leave. In the future, Macao, China will continue to promote women’s equal leadership opportunities 
in the decision -making levels across al l political, economic and public life. In addition, we will further 
consult with local women and relevant associations on fostering women’s participation in both 
domestic and international women -related affairs.  
Concluding remarks  
5.23.   To conclude, Macao, China  would like to reaffirm the unwavering support to the rules -based 
multilateral trading system and the important role of TPR Mechanism in ensuring transparency and 
predictability.  
5.24.   I would like to express again my sincere thanks to the Chair, the discussant , fellow delegations 
and the Secretariat for your invaluable contribution and support to the fifth TPR of Macao, China. 
Despite this meeting being a virtual one, I must say that the fruitful result is a reality. Hereby, I 
would like to wish everyone the be st of health and a prosperous year to come. Thank you.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.25.   Thank you very much for giving me the floor on this second day of the fifth Macao, China TPR. 
I take this opportunity to extend my greetings to the delegation of Macao, China.  
5.26.   We are quite s ure, and the Members of this Organization will agree with me, that this exercise 
of the 5th Trade Policy Review of Macao, China was carried out with great success, judging by the 
quality of exchanges between the delegations and the number of interventions.  
5.27.   The climate was of perfect harmony and Macao SAR responded positively to the 93 questions 
submitted by 11 Member countries, as well as clarifying today some questions submitted during the 
interventions. We highlight in particular the aspects related to pu blic procurement and the need to 
reinforce reforms to diversify the economy.  
5.28.   As we all know, this Trade Policy Review was an exercise that allowed Members to carry out 
a collective assessment, to better understand the policy and the situation of the Macao SAR, based 
on information regarding their level of performance, while respecting their multilateral engagements.  
5.29.   Recognizing the fluctuation in the GDP growth rate, marked by uncertainty in the resumption 
of economic and trade worldwide, the Member countri es highlighted some positive aspects as well 
as challenges for Macao SAR, namely:  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  5.30.   Positive aspects:  
✓ Implementing reforms since 2013;  
✓ Firm and continuous support for the multilateral system;  
✓ Ratification and Implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement;  
✓ Ratification of the Addendum to the Trade -Related Intellectual Property Rights Agreement - 
TRIPS;  
✓ Sending of permanent notifications;  
✓ Active participation in the working group on Investment Facilitation for Development;  
✓ Firm positio n in maintaining an Interim Arbitration and Appeal Agreement with a view to 
achieving a good dispute settlement system for SMEs;  
✓ Improvements in the simplified customs system for goods; and  
✓ Driven participation in trade facilities.  
 
5.31.   Challenges:  
✓ Continuous implementation of reforms to moderately diversify the economy and not be 
dependent on the service sector, which accounts for 95% of GDP;  
✓ Creating an open and non -discriminatory public procurement system and fully access the 
said Agreement where it is an observer;  
✓ Improving rules to incentivize investment;  
✓ Making the Member countries aware of how the CEPA Agreement works and its scope for 
other countries, as well as the subsidy programme for the creative and cultural industry; 
and 
✓ Expanding covera ge of the consolidated tariff lines that currently stand at 30%.  
 
5.32.   We believe that Macao SAR will continue in the best way these positive aspects and challenges 
identified in this 5th TPR, aimed at increasingly improving its responsibilities in the Multilat eral Trade 
System, which, undoubtedly, is already satisfactory. I Thank you.  
BRAZIL  
5.33.   Brazil would like to thank the Government of Macao, China for engaging in its fifth Trade 
Policy Review and providing Members with an overview of Macao’s economic performan ce and 
adherence to the multilateral trading system.  
5.34.   We would also like to express our appreciation to the WTO Secretariat for its thorough and 
comprehensive report, as well as to the discussant, H.E. Ms. Margarida Rosa Da Silva Izata (Angola), 
and you, Ch air, for your contribution to a successful trade monitoring exercise.  
5.35.   Macao, China is an original Member of the WTO and maintains a positive record of compliance 
with WTO rules and principles. The territory’s longstanding commitment to the multilateral tra ding 
system and its transparency pillar are to be commended.  
5.36.   Brazil notes with satisfaction that Macao, China has made considerable progress in the WTO 
front since its last Review in 2013.  
5.37.   The reports under consideration highlight Macao, China’s ratificat ion of the Protocol 
concerning the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in April 2016 and the Protocol Amending the 
TRIPS Agreement in August 2017.  
5.38.   Measures to further streamline customs procedures and facilitate trade, under the aegis of 
the WTO Trade Faci litation Agreement (TFA), as well as the enhancement of an IT -based customs 
clearance system, exemplify Macao, China’s efforts towards efficient and unimpeded trade flows.  
5.39.   Macao, China’s acceptance of the Special Compulsory Licensing System of Article 31 bis of 
the TRIPS Agreement is also of great importance as this is one of the backbones of the Intellectual 
Property regime flexibilities.  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  5.40.   We also highlight Macao, China’s engagement in the discussions of Investment Facilitation for 
Development and its inte rest in contributing to a concrete outcome on this initiative at the Twelfth 
Ministerial Conference (MC12).  
5.41.   The COVID -19 pandemic has had a strong impact on Macao, China’s economy, affecting its 
main service industries, specially tourism and gaming, which account for a large portion of the 
territory’s GDP.  
5.42.   The Government of Macao, China is cognizant of the need to diversify their economy in order 
to minimize the risk of external shocks.  
5.43.   Brazil and Macao, China’s bilateral trade flow is still relatively mo dest compared to its 
potential, amounting to approximately USD 50 million last year.  
5.44.   As you know, Macao, China share with Brazil and other Portuguese -speaking counterparts 
historical, cultural and linguistic ties, which favor our bilateral cooperation.  
5.45.   Under the framework of the Forum for Trade and Economic Cooperation between China and 
Portuguese -Speaking Countries, whose headquarters lie in Macao, China, we hope to continue to 
harness our economic and trade potential as partners.  
CHINA  
5.46.   We would like to  thank the delegation of Macao, China and also the Chair, the discussant and 
the WTO Secretariat for successfully holding this Trade Policy Review. The Members' positive 
comments on Macao, China's including its implementation of WTO obligations and its ope n economy 
are very impressive.  
5.47.   We believe that the remarks and recommendations from this Policy Review will help Macao, 
China to continue its efforts to diversify its economy and to achieve sustainable development.  
5.48.   We also look forward to Macao, China's continued role in the multilateral trading system.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.49.   On behalf of the EU, let me first thank Macao, China for the comprehensive overview 
presented on Tuesday and this morning of the main trade and economic developments that occurred 
during the review period. The EU welcomes the useful insights that this Review has provided into 
Macao, China’s ongoing and planned policies and initiatives to foster economic growth, enhance its 
regional integration and strengthen its regulatory environment . 
5.50.   The EU hopes that the comments received by the WTO Members will support Macao, China in 
promoting a continued favorable environment for businesses and trade to thrive.  
5.51.   In this respect, the EU is glad to hear that the end of Macao, China’s five -year devel opment 
plan will result in a second five -year plan to diversify Macao, China’s economy and reduce the 
dependence on the gaming industry.  
5.52.   The EU will also follow with great interest the outcome of on -going reviews by Macao, China 
of its legislations in the  fields of consumer protection, competition and procurement and we take 
note of the comments made this morning.  
5.53.   Additionally, the EU would also like to take this opportunity to highlight that Macao, China – 
as well as the business community in general – would benefit from Macao, China binding more tariff 
lines at the WTO and from joining the WTO’s Government Procurement Agreement.  
5.54.   In conclusion, the EU would like to thank the delegation of Macao, China for undergoing this 
important transparency exercise in  a virtual format and in spite of challenging circumstances, thus 
demonstrating Macao, China’s commitment to the WTO. We are confident that our good cooperation 
will continue and will contribute to a sustainable socio -economic recovery from the pandemic an d to 
economic growth.  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  BANGLADESH  
5.55.   First, the delegation of Bangladesh welcomes Mr. Kin IP Tai, Director of Macao Economic 
Bureau for his comprehensive opening statement and you, Chair, for your introductory statement.  
5.56.   We would like to convey my thanks to the WTO Secretariat and to Macao, China's authorities 
for the comprehensive reports. Our thanks also go to H.E Ms. Margarida Da Silva Izata, Ambassador 
and Permanent Representative of Angola, for her insightful comments and discussion.  
5.57.   Bangladesh appreciat es Macao China’s role as a free and open economy, less restrictive port 
facilities to facilitate trade, and to support the rules -based multilateral trading system like 
Bangladesh as a founding Member of the World Trade Organization. The delegation of Bangl adesh 
also praises Macao, China’s ratification of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement; and Macao, China’s 
rapid economic growth since return to China in 1999, though in 2014, 2015 and 2016 growth has 
been declined. Bangladesh wishes that Macao, China will  be back to its original and expected 
economic growth overcoming uncertainties including COVID -19. 
5.58.   The delegation of Bangladesh wishes a successful completion of Macao, China’s fifth the Trade 
Policy Review.  
MR TAI KIN IP (HEAD  OF DELEGATION)  
5.59.   Thank you, Mr . Chair. As regards the comments from the fellow delegates, we have no further 
replies now. We are still receiving some questions from some Members, so we will reply later in 
written form, according to the rules of the TPR Mechanism.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  The fifth Trade Policy Review of Macao, China has given us the opportunity to expand our 
understanding of its trade, economic, and investment policies. This has been aided by the 
information contained in the Government and Secretariat rep orts, together with Macao, China's 
responses to the questions from Members. Thanks to the collaboration of Macao, China authorities, 
this Review has taken place despite the constraints posed by the COVID -19 pandemic on the whole 
preparation process. Our di scussion has benefited from the active participation of the Macao, China 
delegation, led by the Director of the Macao Economic Bureau Services, Mr. Tai Kin Ip, as well as 
from the insightful contribution of the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Margarida Rosa Da  Silva Izata 
of Angola, and the interventions by Members. Macao, China responded to all 93 written questions 
posed by Members before the meeting.  
6.2.  Members commended Macao, China for maintaining an open economy with few trade and 
investment restrictions and for having responded promptly to the COVID 19 pandemic through relief 
measures equivalent to 12% of GDP. They noted that the economy’s openness had contributed to 
the fast increase in per capita GDP, now one of the world’s highest, while sustaining a sound  fiscal 
situation. They noted, however, the still strong dependence of the economy on the tourism and 
gaming sector, which made it vulnerable to external shocks and had led to wide fluctuations in the 
rate of GDP growth, exacerbated by the COVID -19 pandemi c. In that sense, they took note of efforts 
to diversify economic activity, including the roadmap for the promotion of intra sectoral and inter 
sectoral diversification contained in Macao, China’s first Five -Year Development Plan.  
6.3.  Macao, China’s commitment  and support for the rules -based multilateral trading system was 
praised by Members. It was noted that this commitment was shown by the ratification of the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement and the adoption of trade facilitating measures, the ratification of th e Protocol 
Amending the TRIPS Agreement and the endorsement of the Multi -Party Interim Appeal -Arbitration 
Arrangement, as well as by joining the expansion of the Information Technology Agreement, and 
subscribing to the joint Ministerial Statement on Invest ment Facilitation for Development. Macao, 
China was commended for its excellent record of WTO notifications, including of COVID 19 related 
measures, hence supporting the WTO’s monitoring function and the ability of other Members to 
understand its policies.  Some Members encouraged Macao, China to take part in the Joint Statement 
on e-commerce initiative and the Joint Initiative on Services Domestic Regulation. Several Members 
raised questions and made remarks with respect to trade and gender issues.  
6.4.  Macao, C hina’s continued development of regional cooperation during the review period, mainly 
through the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) and the Greater Bay Area (GBA) 
Framework Agreement, was noted by Members, some of whom requested information on  the 
economic and business opportunities offered to foreign companies by these agreements, including 
participation in infrastructure projects.  
6.5.  Members were appreciative of the reforms implemented during the review period, which 
included measures to facilitate trade such as the enhancement of the Electronic Data Interchange 
(EDI) customs clearance system, and the simplification of customs procedures, including under the 
CEPA between Macao, China and Mainland China. Members raised a number of questions  on these 
issues, in particular on the functioning of the EDI system, temporary admission and transit 
procedures, and documentary and physical checks at the border.  
6.6.  Members commended Macao, China for keeping all applied tariff lines zero -rated. It was note d, 
however, that the scope of its tariff bindings in the WTO remained limited. Macao, China was thus 
encouraged to consider expanding coverage of its tariff bindings in order to ensure the predictability 
of its trade regime. Noting in their written questio ns that Macao, China maintains an import -licensing 
regime for products in addition to SPS certificate requirements, some Members questioned the need 
for this procedure, as well as for the maintenance of some SPS measures. Some Members 
commended Macao, Chin a for providing data on SMEs for the Review; more information was sought 
regarding the three main SME support schemes.  
6.7.  Noting the reform progress made, Macao, China was invited to continue efforts to strengthen 
its regulatory regime in order to help attrac t more investment and create a more predictable business 
environment. In this respect, Members sought further information on legal and regulatory changes 
currently under review in areas such as competition policy, government procurement, intellectual WT/TPR/W/ 184 • Macao, China  
 
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  prope rty, and tourism. In this regard, some Members sought information on the timeline and content 
of the competition policy legislation revision. Some Members expressed their interest in knowing 
more details about the timeline and status of the redrafting proc ess of the Public Procurement Law 
and encouraged Macao, China to put in place open and competitive government procurement 
procedures. Several Members invited Macao, China to consider seeking observer status in the WTO 
Committee on Government Procurement, w ith a view to eventually joining the Government 
Procurement Agreement. With respect to intellectual property, Members requested information 
concerning the review of the Industrial Property Code and the type of changes envisaged; remedies 
for trade secrets misappropriation; and the development of local patent examination capacity.  
6.8.  This covers briefly the main topics addressed during this Review. Let me once again thank 
Macao, China, the discussant, and Members for contributing to what has been both a detaile d and 
enlightening discussion. Examining these and other issues which have emerged from our exchanges 
during this Review, has allowed us all to gather a better understanding of Macao, China’s trade and 
investment policies and practices, the progress made s ince its last Review in 2013, and the 
challenges that remain, which include a deepening of the diversification process already started. 
Members look forward to receiving written answers to follow -up questions within one month, at 
which point the Review wil l be successfully concluded.  
__________