SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

15th National Games to create opportunities for Macau’s moderate economic diversification

  • The 15th National Games and Para-Special Olympics present a golden opportunity to promote moderate economic diversification.
  • Both the government and the public are united in their efforts to ensure the event is a resounding success.
The 15th National Games of the People’s Republic of China, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games will be held at the end of 2025.

At that time, top athletes from across the country will gather in Macau and spectators from around the world will come to witness their brilliance. This grand event is not only a spectacular sports competition but will also have a profound impact on Macau’s economy, livelihood and social development.

The tri-regional co-hosting of the National Games represents a new initiative under the “One Country, Two Systems” principle. With some events spanning both Macau and Hengqin, it demonstrates Macau’s successful integration into the broader national development landscape. This will undoubtedly strengthen connectivity among the three regions within the Greater Bay Area, significantly enhancing its regional influence.

Prior to the commencement of the Games, the Macau government established the “National Games Preparatory Office”, led by former Sports Bureau Director Pun Weng Kun. The Chief Executive of Macau, Sam Hou Fai, attended the “100-Day Countdown” ceremony and visited Shenzhen to promote cross-regional coordination, reflecting the government’s high level of commitment.

The city’s six concessionaires have also actively supported the event by providing venues, dance performances and accommodation sponsorships, demonstrating their full cooperation with the Games. It is evident that both the government and the public are united in their efforts to ensure the event is a resounding success.

Given Macau’ singular economic structure, the government has long sought new development paths. The 15th National Games and Para-Special Olympic present a golden opportunity to promote moderate economic diversification.

With high prestige and world-class competitive standards, the Games are expected to attract a large number of domestic and international spectators. In addition to watching the competitions, visitors are able to experience the diverse charm of Macau as a “World Centre of Tourism and Leisure”, thereby boosting the tourism industry and further strengthening Macau’s international image.

Local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Macau are expected to benefit, particularly in the catering, retail and hospitality sectors. It is anticipated that many athletes, supporters and cultural tourists will explore various districts of Macau, increasing consumer interest in local businesses.

At the same time, different industries can incorporate the National Games theme into their products – for example, designers may launch creative cultural products themed around the Games and restaurants may offer themed dishes. Through the improvement of sports tourism, cultural and creative industries, and regional cooperation with Guangdong Province and Hong Kong, Macau is poised to explore new directions for diversified economic development.

During the 15th National Games, Macau will host five competition events between November and December 2025, including table tennis (all categories), 3×3 basketball (all categories), 5×5 basketball (men’s under-18 category), volleyball (women’s adult category) and karate (all categories).

You may also like...