Macau to launch ‘first-store economy’ plan soon

 jul25

Macau is preparing a new initiative to encourage 20 to 30 companies from Portuguese and Spanish-speaking countries and the Greater China region to establish their presence in the city, with the programme expected to roll out this quarter.

The “first-store economy” policy – first coined in Shanghai in 2018 – seeks to leverage local resources and attract domestic and international brands to make their debut.

Speaking of the idea, Secretary for Economy and Finance Tai Kin Ip stated at a Legislation Assembly session recently that Macau would follow suit, rolling out policies to enhance the domestic business environment and that of Hengqin.

In the first half of 2025, the “One Stop Service” for Macau investors received 181 new investment proposals, among them 15 were new projects linked to listed companies and leading enterprises.

This service effectively lowers entry barriers for businesses entering Macau, enhances operational efficacy.

Several Macau brand exhibitions have been held this year, serving as strategic platform to attract investment through targeted promotion, the secretary told lawmakers.

The authorities promised to continue improving the tax environment. According to the economy chief, the new tax code is set to take full effect on 1 January next year, introducing international tax concepts to the region.

“Territoriality principle will also be established,” said Tai, “in order to build a stable, transparent, and competitive tax environment that encourages major enterprises to set up their headquarters here.”

https://www.macaubusiness.com/macau-to-launch-first-store-economy-plan-soon/