Macao's 2026 Policy Address Emphasizes Reform

On November 18, 2025, the Chief Executive of Macao, Mr. Sam Hou Fai, delivered the 2026 Policy Address at the Legislative Assembly. The address, titled "Accelerate Reforms and Efficiency with Keen Determination; Overcome Challenges and Promote Diversification with Fortified Efforts," outlines the government's plans to deepen public administration reform, facilitate economic diversification, and improve citizens' livelihoods.

Key Objectives and Policy Priorities

The 2026 Policy Address sets forth several major objectives, including:

• Continuous economic recovery and substantial progress in economic diversification.
• Maintaining positive GDP growth and improving the business environment.
• Enhancing economic vitality and strengthening integration with Hengqin.
• Protecting local employment and optimizing livelihood measures.
• Deepening administrative and legal reforms to improve governance efficiency.
• Safeguarding national security and maintaining social harmony and stability.

To achieve these objectives, the government has identified nine policy priorities for 2026:

1. Building a strong defense to safeguard national security and maintain social stability.
2. Deepening public administration reform and enhancing governance efficiency.
3. Promoting economic diversification and fostering new industries.
4. Improving people's livelihoods and strengthening social security.
5. Advancing education and nurturing talent.
6. Enhancing healthcare services and public health systems.
7. Protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development.
8. Strengthening cultural development and promoting Macao's unique identity.
9. Enhancing regional cooperation and integrating into national development strategies.

Legal and Administrative Reforms

A significant focus of the 2026 Policy Address is on legal and administrative reforms. The government plans to:

• Improve the legal system for safeguarding national security by drafting new laws and revising existing regulations.
• Enhance the Civil Protection Master Plan and promote the construction of the "Sky Eye" surveillance system.
• Strengthen the linkage and cooperation mechanism with patriotic social organizations and guide their development.
• Establish a leading group for patriotic education and formulate an overall plan for national security education for all citizens.

These reforms aim to enhance governance efficiency, ensure social stability, and align Macao's development with national strategies.

Economic Diversification and Regional Integration

The Policy Address emphasizes the importance of economic diversification and regional integration. The government plans to:

• Actively participate in the development of the Greater Bay Area and integrate high-quality resources.
• Deepen cooperation with Hong Kong in finance, tourism, and livelihood-related matters.
• Facilitate travel between Hong Kong and Macao by studying more convenient clearance arrangements and improving cross-border transportation.

These initiatives aim to create new opportunities for economic growth and enhance Macao's role in regional development.

Conclusion

The 2026 Policy Address outlines a comprehensive plan for Macao's development, focusing on legal and administrative reforms, economic diversification, and regional integration. By aligning with national strategies and seizing development opportunities, the government aims to ensure long-term prosperity and stability for the region.