AGP Executive Report

Legislative Q&A: Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai will attend a plenary session of the Legislative Assembly in its hemicycle this afternoon (3:00 p.m.), review the past six months of governance, outline key tasks for the second half of the year, and answer lawmakers’ questions on socioeconomic issues; the session will be broadcast live on TDM and streamed via official government platforms. New Economy-Finance Chief: Ng Wai Han was sworn in as Macao Secretary for Economy and Finance, pledging transparent, efficient governance while pushing economic diversification and resilience aligned with the national 15th Five-Year Plan. Public Health Watch: Hong Kong’s CHP reported four new community-acquired Legionnaires’ disease cases (ages 60–74) from June 7–13 and urged residents—especially high-risk groups—to properly maintain man-made water systems and follow precautions. Urban Planning (Taipa): The Urban Planning Council released an updated Taipa Northern Zone Urban Development Plan, shifting focus toward liveability, higher green-space standards, housing-employment balance, and prioritised flood control. Local Economy Signals: AMCM said Macao foreign exchange reserves reached 235.3 billion patacas at end-May, up 1.1% month-on-month, while the trade-weighted effective exchange rate index eased. Rodent Control Results: IAM said it divided Macao into 25 rodent control zones, deploying 25,000 baiting points in 2025 and eliminating 2,894 rats (11.5% of points). Sports & Culture: The 26th Macao Lotus Flower Festival runs June 12–July 17 at Taipa Houses Museum, with the city also hosting World Cup-themed football history displays at Lisboeta Macau.

Macao Leadership Update: The State Council has appointed Ng Wai Han as Macao’s Secretary for Economy and Finance, filling a key post under the Basic Law framework. Cross-border Talent & Finance: Macao’s Labour Affairs Bureau has launched internship schemes for young locals to work in mainland firms tied to Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking markets, with applications opening June 15, and a separate cross-border finance internship plan with Luso International Banking in Guangzhou. Health & Emergency Preparedness: Macao’s Health Bureau inaugurated an Emergency Medicine Training Centre and a Stroke Centre, aiming to boost first-aid skills for the public and strengthen emergency response. Transport & Connectivity: TurboJET will relocate the Macau–Shenzhen airport ferry from Outer Harbour to Taipa Ferry Terminal to better match passenger travel patterns. Culture & Sports: Lisboeta Macau opened a World Cup football history exhibition, while Macau hosted the first HK–Macau Beyblade intercity competition and continues youth-focused events like the children’s film dubbing training. Regional Politics Watch: China’s sanctions on Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. sparked pushback from Manila, with the National Maritime Council defending his actions in the West Philippine Sea.

Philippines-China Tensions: China’s sanctions on Philippine Defense chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and his family drew fresh pushback, with the National Maritime Council backing Teodoro and lawmakers urging Manila to protest, as Beijing bars entry to mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau over “irresponsible remarks.” Macau-Hengqin Talent & Finance: Macau’s Labour Affairs Bureau launches a 12-week internship scheme placing young locals in mainland firms tied to Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking markets, plus a separate cross-border finance internship plan in Guangzhou. Public Services Upgrade: The Health Bureau inaugurated an Emergency Medicine Training Centre and a Stroke Centre to boost first-aid skills and emergency response. Transport Update: TurboJET will move the Macau–Shenzhen airport ferry route to Taipa Ferry Terminal to better match Cotai travel patterns. Regional Spotlight from Macau: The 17th IIICF wrapped up with 21 deals worth US$9.9b, while Macau hosted its first HK–Macau Beyblade interport competition. Culture & Sports: Lisboeta Macau opened a football history exhibition for the World Cup, and SJM’s dragon boat races kicked off at Nam Van Lake.

Philippines-China Tensions: China barred Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. and his family from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao, and banned Chinese entities from dealing with them over “irresponsible” remarks; Manila called it an “unfriendly act,” while Teodoro vowed to keep doing his duty and said the sanctions may also be linked to Philippine crackdowns on alleged Chinese-linked illegal activities. Regional Response: Philippine lawmakers and military officials, including Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, urged formal DFA protests and said the move targets Philippine sovereignty. Macao Business & Appointments: Macau’s Paradise Entertainment named Hong Kong solicitor Eric Ho King Fung as an independent non-executive director. GBA Finance Push: Macau launched a cross-border finance internship scheme for young locals in Guangzhou, aiming to build modern finance talent for the SAR. Culture & Sport: The SJM Macao International Dragon Boat Races 2026 kicked off at Nam Van Lake, with SJM Golden Jubilee A winning the men’s 200m open category and SJM Lotus A taking the women’s 200m. Local Policy Update: Macau’s IAM adjusted imported pet inspection rules, exempting eligible dogs and cats from mandatory quarantine for rabies-risk cases if they pass pre-entry checks.

Philippines-China Tensions: Philippine lawmakers and security agencies rallied behind Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. after China barred him and his family from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao, with Manila calling it an “unfriendly act” and Teodoro saying the sanctions stem from his remarks on the West Philippine Sea and alleged Chinese-linked illegal activities. Macao Dragon Boat: The 2026 Macao International Dragon Boat Races kicked off at Nam Van Lake, with 137 local teams competing; standard races run Sunday and international invitation races are set for June 19. Local Policy Update: Macao’s Municipal Affairs Bureau adjusted inspection rules for imported dogs and cats, removing mandatory 30-day quarantine for eligible animals from rabies-affected areas if they pass pre-entry checks and arrival inspection. Regional Infrastructure & Tourism: Macao hosted the 17th IIICF with a “green digital infrastructure connectivity” theme, while Skal International Asia Congress returned to the city, highlighting “tourism +” developments. Sports & Culture: PV Sindhu’s Australian Open campaign ended in the semifinals; meanwhile, Lisbon’s Saint Anthony festivities included performances by Macau’s Lo Leong.

Philippines–China Tensions: China has sanctioned Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and his family, banning them from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao, and barring Chinese entities from dealing with them, after Beijing accused him of “irresponsible remarks” amid the West Philippine Sea dispute. Teodoro hit back, saying he will keep doing his duty and linking the move to Philippine efforts against alleged Chinese-linked illegal activities. Macao Policy Update: The Macao Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) has eased entry rules for pet dogs and cats from rabies-affected places: quarantine is no longer required if pre-entry checks are met and an IAM vet inspection is passed on arrival. Macao as a Regional Hub: Macao hosted major international gatherings this week, including the 17th IIICF on green digital infrastructure connectivity and the Skal Asia Congress, reinforcing the city’s role as a “precise connector.” Cross-border Logistics: Cathay Cargo extended its Air-Land Fresh Lane for perishables to Macao, using a single air waybill via Hong Kong to speed cold-chain delivery. Infrastructure & Water Security: Pakistan’s WAPDA chairman urged strict adherence to shared-water treaties while speaking at the IIICF in Macao.

Philippines-China Tensions: China slammed Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. after Beijing sanctioned him and his spouse and child, banning entry to mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao and blocking Chinese transactions with them; Manila called it “unfriendly,” while Teodoro vowed to keep defending Philippine interests. Macao Customs & Health: Macao’s Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) exempted eligible dogs and cats from mandatory quarantine from 12 June, replacing it with pre-entry checks and an IAM veterinary inspection on arrival for animals from rabies-affected areas. Macao Events & Culture: The “City in Rephotography” exhibition opened in Macao, pairing historical archives photos with modern rephotographs, with guided tours running on weekends. Infrastructure & Tourism Platform: Macao’s 17th IIICF opened with 3,500+ guests and a focus on green digital infrastructure connectivity, while the Skal Asia Congress also kicked off, reinforcing Macao as an international tourism meeting hub. Cross-border Logistics: Cathay Cargo expanded its Air-Land Fresh Lane for perishables into Macao, enabling faster cold-chain delivery via Hong Kong. Regional Cooperation: Macao’s MGTO attended UN Tourism meetings in Spain to boost international exchange and recognition.

Philippines-China Tensions: China has barred Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., along with his spouse and child, from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao, and banned Chinese entities from dealing with them, accusing Teodoro of “irresponsible remarks” that Beijing says undermine its interests amid South China Sea disputes. Teodoro Response: Teodoro shrugged off the sanctions, saying Beijing’s move is how it punishes those who “speak the truth,” and vowed to keep doing his duty. Macao Travel Update: Cambodia will offer visa-free entry to Chinese nationals (including Macau SAR passport holders) from 15 June to 15 October for up to 14 days per entry, with travellers required to complete an E-Arrival Card. Local Mobility: Air Macau says it will resume the Macau–Manila route on 2 July (five flights weekly at first) and relaunch Macau–Fukuoka from 1 July to 31 August. Regional Spotlight on Macau: Macau’s IIICF continues to push infrastructure connectivity with Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking nations, with Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai highlighting the forum’s role in linking projects and partners.

Aviation & Tourism: Air Macau will restart its Macau–Manila route on July 2, with five weekly flights (NX952 departs 11:20am; NX951 departs 3:10pm). It will also relaunch Macau–Fukuoka for the summer peak from July 1 to Aug 31, with three weekly flights. Local Economy & Hospitality: Macau Hotel Association vice chairman Rutger Verschuren says June hotel occupancy is slower (with the World Cup weighing on travel), but expects a pickup in the second half of July and most of August, with room nights rising though rates may stay below last year. Infrastructure & Regional Connectivity: Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai opened the 17th IIICF, calling Macao a “precise connector” for infrastructure links between China and Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking countries. Transport chief Raymond Tam highlighted the government’s “1+4” diversification push and four flagship projects, under a theme of green digital infrastructure connectivity. Education & Cooperation: Macao Polytechnic University and the University of Coimbra signed an agreement to develop a joint global campus in the Hengqin Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone, supporting degree, training, research and exchange ties. Culture & Community: The 26th Macao Lotus Flower Festival starts tomorrow (June 12) in Taipa, running to July 17 with 9,000+ lotus pots and multiple activities. International Relations: China announced sanctions against Philippine defence chief Gilberto Teodoro and his family, banning them from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao. Sports & Trade: Hong Kong customs seized about 230,000 suspected counterfeit World Cup items worth nearly US$20m, including 30,000 fake jerseys—some bound for overseas markets.

World Cup & Macau gaming: Citi says the expanded 2026 World Cup could hit Macau GGR harder than past tournaments, forecasting a 10% year-on-year drop in June and 5% in July before a quick rebound after the event. Sports crime watch: Macau lawmakers and the Judiciary Police warn youth about illegal World Cup betting schemes using social media, messaging apps, ads and “free tips,” urging the public to report suspicious activity. Immigration upgrade: From 11 June, eligible non-resident workers and non-resident students in Macao can use the iris automated clearance service at multiple checkpoints, building on the system’s growing use by residents. Portugal ties: Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai praised Macau’s Portuguese and Macanese communities as key to the city’s multicultural stability, and reiterated Macau’s role as a platform for China–Portuguese-speaking cooperation. Infrastructure forum: The 17th IIICF opened at Cotai Expo, with a focus on boosting green digital infrastructure connectivity and promoting Macao as a connector for China and Portuguese/Spanish-speaking markets. Local governance: A labour law amendment bill on maternity and annual leave passed its first reading, proposing longer maternity leave and a phased increase to annual paid leave.

Portugal National Day & food tourism: The Portuguese Gourmet Feast 2026 at Sofitel Macau (Ponte 16) kicked off “June, Month of Portugal,” with 35 Macau restaurants offering Portuguese menus and a 10.6% discount, plus a wine and egg tart showcase ahead of June 10. World Cup build-up in Cotai: Macau Slot’s “Classic Revival: World Football History Exhibition” opened at Lisboeta Macau, featuring 70+ football relics and interactive photo spots running to July 19. Macau crime crackdown: The Judiciary Police said it busted Macau’s biggest-ever cannabis smuggling case, seizing about 34.9 kg worth around 34.95 million patacas from a Hong Kong man arriving from Southeast Asia. Local governance & labour: A bill to amend Macau’s Labour Relations Law passed its first reading, proposing longer maternity leave (70 to 90 days) and a mechanism to gradually raise annual paid leave up to 12 days. Tourism transport update: MGTO, DSEDT and DICJ will optimise the “Tourism and Leisure Bus” from Saturday, adding a new two-way “Macau Peninsula to Cotai” route and extending the Zape route to regular weekends. Education in Hengqin: Macao Polytechnic University said it will push partnerships with QS top-100 universities and expand science/engineering focus at its Hengqin campus. Regional finance outlook: Fitch upgraded its 2026 sector outlook for the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan to “neutral,” citing resilient growth and improving price dynamics.

Public Safety: Macau police busted the territory’s largest-ever cannabis smuggling case, seizing about 34.9 kg worth roughly MOP35 million after a flight arrival and two suitcases were intercepted. Law & Society: Lawmakers advanced Labor Relations Law amendments, including raising maternity leave from 70 to 90 days and a plan to grow annual paid leave up to 12 days, though leave-speed and benefit details sparked debate. Gambling Watch: Ahead of the FIFA World Cup, Judiciary Police warned of illegal betting schemes targeting youth via social media, messaging apps, ads, e-payments and “free tips,” urging the public to report suspicious activity. Education & Hengqin: Macao Polytechnic University said it will pursue partnerships with top 100 QS universities and use its Hengqin campus to strengthen engineering, science, smart transportation, robotics and AI. Tourism Transport: The government plans route and frequency optimisation for the Tourism and Leisure Bus, including a new two-way “Macau Peninsula to Cotai” route and expanded weekend service for the Zape route. Economy & Integration: A report says Macau SMEs are feeling pressure as more residents shop and dine across the border in Guangdong, even as the SAR pushes local consumption campaigns. Health Snapshot: Macau’s life expectancy hit 83.5 years in 2025, with men at 80.6 and women at 86.3, citing higher public health investment. Culture & Events: Galaxy Entertainment Group opened “Dazzling Galaxy – Crystalline Art Exhibition” at GalaxyArt in Cotai, running to Sept 13.

Public Safety: Macau Judiciary Police (PJ) said it busted the city’s largest-ever cannabis smuggling case, seizing about 34.9 kg worth roughly MOP35 million, arresting a 25-year-old man from Hong Kong who allegedly was paid to transport the drugs from a Southeast Asian flight. Transport & Tourism: The government plans to optimise the “Tourism and Leisure Bus” with route and frequency changes, including a new two-way “Macau Peninsula to Cotai” service and extending the Zape route to regular weekend operations. Education & Community: Macao Polytechnic University held its 2025/2026 graduation ceremonies for nearly 1,700 students, with the SAR government pledging continued support, including campus development in the Hengqin Cooperation Zone. Higher Education Exchange: UM will co-host the 35th AULP annual meeting in Macao from 15–17 June, bringing together about 150 representatives from Portuguese-speaking universities. Health & Lifestyle: Macau residents’ average life expectancy reached 83.5 years in 2025, with men at 80.6 and women at 86.3, according to government figures. Culture & Sports: GalaxyArt at Galaxy Macau opened the “Dazzling Galaxy – Crystalline Art Exhibition” (over 60 works) and the SJM Macao International Dragon Boat Races’ blessing ceremony was held ahead of races on 13, 14 and 19 June.

Macau Life & Health: Macau’s residents’ average life expectancy hit 83.5 years in 2025, with men at 80.6 and women at 86.3, as the government points to sustained public health spending since the 1999 handover. Public Safety & Crime: Judiciary Police arrested a local businessman over alleged rape of a Myanmar domestic helper, after coercion tied to her work permit process; police also arrested four men in a drug-trafficking case linked to smuggling from Southeast Asia to Macau and Zhuhai, targeting casino gamblers. Gaming & Culture: Galaxy Entertainment Group opened “Dazzling Galaxy – Crystalline Art Exhibition” at GalaxyArt in Cotai, running to Sept 13, blending translucent art with “Technology + Art + Eastern Culture.” Local Governance & Transport: Macau awarded the management and operation of the Taipa Ferry Terminal Heliport to Macau Heliport Services Co Ltd via direct award, citing special technical qualifications, as helicopter services prepare to start. International Tech/Policy: The US BIS issued guidance on advanced computing export license requirements involving entities in Macau and China. Arts & Community: UM held its Long Service and Outstanding Administrative Staff awards, while a Nobel Laureate lecture on climate change is set for June 15.

Public Health & Safety: Macau’s life expectancy hit 83.5 years in 2025, with the government citing rising healthcare spending since the 1999 handover. Crime & Justice: Judiciary Police arrested a local businessman over alleged rape of a Myanmar domestic helper, and also detained four men in a drug-trafficking case linked to smuggling routes targeting Macau casino gamblers. Social Order Crackdown: Authorities dismantled organized prostitution operations, arresting 26 people in raids that reportedly involved serving and retired police officers. Arts & Culture: Galaxy Entertainment Group opened “Dazzling Galaxy – Crystalline Art Exhibition” at GalaxyArt, running until Sept 13, featuring 60+ works using translucent, crystalline materials. Community & Events: A blessing ceremony was held for the 2026 SJM Macao International Dragon Boat Races on June 13, 14 and 19 at Nam Van Lake. Local Governance & Transport: The government awarded management of the Taipa Ferry Terminal Heliport to Macau Heliport Services Co Ltd, citing special technical qualifications, as the facility prepares for operations. Labour & Weather: The Labour Department urged employers to make flexible work arrangements after rainstorm and tropical cyclone warnings are cancelled. Health Alerts (Region): Hong Kong is investigating a confirmed local mpox case and urged high-risk groups to get vaccinated.

Biotech Deal for Greater China: LENZ Therapeutics said Everest Medicines has bought rights from Corxel Pharmaceuticals to develop, manufacture and commercialize VIZZ® (LNZ100) across mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, with an NDA approval expected in Q1 2027. Macao Healthcare Readiness: Macao Union Hospital’s ICU is set to start later this month, while the emergency department will gradually become fully operational in the second half of 2026, including handling more ambulance cases and ending the need for local radiotherapy patients to travel out. Startup Push at AIE Expo Macao: The 929 Challenge and 929 Summit will run Dec 3-4 at Cotai Expo as part of AIE Expo 2026, adding an acceleration programme to help startups enter the Greater Bay Area market. Green Transport Upgrade: Macau’s first EV supercharging station in Cotai is completed and moving into trial operations, with plans to add more fast chargers and scooter charging points this year. Public Safety Crackdown: Judiciary Police dismantled a sauna-based prostitution ring, arresting 26 including active-duty PSP officers, in a case involving over MOP790 million in illicit proceeds. Local Culture & Lifestyle: Cha Yu, a Macau tea beverage brand, unveiled a refreshed identity and its signature cloud milk tea, while MGTO promoted Macao tourism products in Malaysia and Thailand to attract more Southeast Asian visitors.