Hengqin's Industrial Development Bureau Joins ICCA to Boost Macao-Hengqin MICE Industry

The Industrial Development Bureau of Hengqin has officially joined the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), a move that is set to open up global resource channels for the Macao-Hengqin MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry. This announcement was made during the Macao-Hengqin MICE Enterprises & ICCA Bay Area Members Seminar 2026, held at Tianmu Qintai in Hengqin, under the theme 'Global Bidding and Breakthrough Strategies for Emerging Destinations.'

The seminar, hosted by the MICE Industry Association of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, brought together over 100 industry representatives. Key speakers included Mr. Lin Yanjie, Head of the Culture, Tourism, Exhibition, and Trade Division, and Dr. Sherry Tan, Associate Professor at the Macao University of Tourism, who shared insights into the development opportunities arising from this milestone.

The significance of this membership lies in the enhanced ability to attract international conferences and events to the region. With the support of the revised 'Measures for Supporting the Development of the MICE Industry in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin,' issued in January 2026, the zone offers attractive incentives. For international conferences included in ICCA statistics, subsidies of RMB 800 per participant are provided, with a maximum subsidy of RMB 1 million per event. Additionally, special incentives are available, and enterprises obtaining ICCA accreditation for the first time will receive a one-off reward of RMB 200,000, further strengthening the growth of MICE market players.

The collaboration between Macao and Hengqin is evolving, with a focus on developing a robust talent pipeline to support the industry. Over the next two years, Hengqin aims to attract more than ten international conferences that qualify for ICCA statistics. Applications for 2027 conferences in key fields such as artificial intelligence and materials science have already entered the bidding process, indicating a proactive approach to enhancing the region's international visibility and influence.

This strategic move is expected to bolster Macao-Hengqin's position in the global MICE industry, providing a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and business opportunities. By leveraging ICCA's extensive network and resources, the region can compete more effectively for high-profile international events, driving economic growth and positioning itself as a premier destination for conferences and exhibitions.