Fireworks lit up the sky as Macao marked its 25th anniversary since returning to China, with President Xi Jinping declaring the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ framework a ‘tremendous success’ 🎆. The ceremony also welcomed the region’s new government, signaling fresh momentum for Asia’s glittering hub of culture and commerce.
From Humble Fishing Town to Global Star 🌏
Since 1999, Macao’s GDP has skyrocketed 7x to \$47.4 billion, while residents now enjoy a \$70,000 per capita income 💰 – ranking it #1 in Asia for wealth by Forbes. With near-full employment and an 83-year life expectancy (up from 78 in 1999!), this ‘Las Vegas of the East’ is winning at life.
Tourism on Fire 🔥
Visitors soared from 6.6 million in 1999 to 33 million expected this year – a 26% jump from 2023! The iconic Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and partnerships in the Greater Bay Area are fueling this boom, making it a must-visit for globetrotters 🌉.
Next-Level Global Ties 🤝
Macao’s signed 60+ international agreements and partners with 190+ organizations. Its Belt and Road trade surged 47.8% last year, while joint ventures with Hengqin are attracting global investors from Singapore to Spain ✈️.
President Xi urged Macao to ‘diversify its economy’ and ‘build higher-level openness,’ hinting at even brighter days ahead. With 147 visa-free destinations and 13 sister cities, this SAR is proving that unity + autonomy = unstoppable energy 🚀.
