The Industrial Development Bureau of Hengqin has officially joined the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), a significant step that promises to open up global resource channels for the Macao-Hengqin MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry. This development was announced 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 event, hosted by the MICE Industry Association of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, brought together over 100 industry representatives to discuss the future of the sector.
The seminar featured insights from Mr. Lin Yanjie, Head of the Culture, Tourism, Exhibition, and Trade Division, and Dr. Sherry Tan, Associate Professor at the Macao University of Tourism. They highlighted the development opportunities arising from this milestone, emphasizing that the Macao-Hengqin MICE cooperation has now entered a phase of regularized and sustainable growth, underpinned by a robust framework covering policy, operational models, and talent development.
A key driver of this progress is 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. These measures provide subsidies of RMB 800 per participant for international conferences included in ICCA statistics, with a maximum subsidy of RMB 1 million per event. Additionally, enterprises obtaining ICCA accreditation for the first time will receive a one-off reward of RMB 200,000, further strengthening support for the growth of MICE market players.
The collaborative model between Macao and Hengqin continues to evolve, with efforts to develop a strong talent pipeline advancing in parallel. Over the next two years, Hengqin plans to attract more than ten international conferences eligible for inclusion in ICCA statistics. Applications for 2027 conferences in key fields such as artificial intelligence and materials science have already entered the bidding process. These initiatives are expected to enhance Macao-Hengqin's international visibility and influence, while strengthening its voice in the global MICE industry.
The significance of this membership cannot be overstated. By joining ICCA, Hengqin gains access to a vast network of global MICE professionals, resources, and bidding opportunities. This move aligns with the broader strategy to position Macao-Hengqin as a premier destination for international conferences and events, leveraging the unique advantages of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone. As the industry looks to the future, the integration of policy support, talent development, and international collaboration will be crucial in driving sustainable growth and competitiveness.
