News

October 23 marks the Official Statistics Day of Macao. In celebration of the 2011 Official Statistics Day, the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) hosted a dinner on 21 October with members of the Consultative Committee on Statistics (CCE) and staff of DSEC, to show appreciation for their effort and contributions to Official Statistics, and conclusion of data collection for the 2011 Population Census. Besides, representatives of the lucky households who win the top three prizes from the "Cooperating Households Lucky Draw of the 2011 Census" are invited to receive the prizes. Director of DSEC, Kong Pek Fong points out that 2011 is a year full of challenges for DSEC, in addition to its plan of work, DSEC is given the responsibility to conduct the decennial population census, which has been completed smoothly with full dedication and commitment of the Census staff. On behalf of DSEC, she thanks the cooperation of the residents, total support of the local community and kind assistance of government departments that have contributed towards "Knowing the Present for a Better Tomorrow". Kong also extends her sincere gratitude to the members of CCE for their supervision and invaluable comments, and compliments the staff for their work of excellence. Regarding the upcoming plan of work for 2012, subsequent to the dissemination of the preliminary Census results in December 2011, DSEC will endeavour to prepare detailed results and the "2011 Census Geographical Information System" that are scheduled to be released simultaneously in April 2012; besides, information on "Population Projection of Macao, 2011-2036" will be published in the fourth quarter of 2012.
…

The four-day 16th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF), has come to a close today (23rd Oct). The 17th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF) will be held from 18th to 21st October 2012. The 16th MIF has received over 95,000 visits, a 17% increase over the past year. The "Convention & Exhibition Through Train Service" and "Overseas Trade Visitors Incentive Plan" have registered the participation of over 5,700 trade visitors. Over the last 4 days, the MIF has conducted 1,502 sessions of business matching, resulting in the signing of 81 protocols. Meanwhile, a total of 47 forums, conferences, seminars & presentations were held with over 7,000 attendees. Larger in scale and more internationalized
The scale of this year's MIF has expanded by 18 %. There were altogether 850 local and overseas exhibitors from more than 60 countries and regions comprising more than 1,650 booths. Not only is the scale of the exhibition expanded, but there are also many new comers this year, such as Nepal, Kenya and Korea who have made their debut independent exhibitions while some Mainland China Provinces like Anhui and Jiangxi have set up their own exhibition areas for the first time. The variety of exhibits is more diversified the contents for display and exchange more extensive, internationalized, professionalized and market-oriented. Particularly, this year has seen many pavilions with the theme of cultural and creative industries and the exhibitors have come from many different regions, constituting a key component and a main highlight of the MIF this year. Not only are the specialized trades exhibition areas larger than before, but the categories of participating trades are more diverse this year. The contents on display and the exhibits are richer in variety and more high-end. These exquisite products have greatly enhanced the quality of the entire Fair, and have boosted the attractiveness to the target international markets and trade visitors. Summits, Forums and Themed Conferences
The guest speakers who are invited to give speeches at the forums and conferences of the 16th MIF are government officials, entrepreneurial leaders, elites of different trades, experts and scholars, and the professional level and results of exchanges have been constantly enhanced. The "International Trade and Investment Forum 2011" has invited not only the government representatives and business leaders from many countries and regions who gather in Macao to explore regional trade and economic investment cooperation, but has also invited this year Mr. Cao Yuanzheng, chief economist of Bank of China to deliver a thematic speech. "The 8th World Summit of Chinese Entrepreneurs" has been graced with the presence of over 1,000 guests and trade visitors from across the world. Moreover, the 16th MIF has also organized activities that regard Macao as a bridge in the collaboration and exchange among three places, such as the Portuguese-Speaking Countries-Fujian-Macao trade and economic exchange activities, "Beijing-Macao-EU Cultural & Creative Industry Cooperation and Promotion Meeting" and "Jiangsu – Macao‧Portuguese Speaking Countries Business Forum", as well as bilateral meetings and activities for exchange and cooperation between Macao and Mainland China and between Macao and other overseas countries, such as the meetings for "Inner-Mongolia-Macao" and "EU-Macao". These activities have resulted in the signing of numerous cross-regional cooperation agreements or memorandums of strategic cooperation among diverse trades and among the participating countries (regions). Looking at the various forums and conferences, and business networking and presentation activities of the MIF this year, in comparison with the past editions, apart from an improvement in the number and profile of participants, another distinctive characteristic is that the MIF this year has paid more attention to the supporting and interactive functions between the meetings and the contents of the exhibitions. In other words, the MIF is attaching more importance to the practical results of the meetings and activities. The MIF has also demonstrated the diversity and target orientation of the meeting activities. E.g. the MIF this year has introduced the networking cocktail receptions for certain trades, which provide a platform of direct exchange and business negotiations for the exhibitors and buyers of the trades concerned. Business Matching and Protocols
The number of business matching sessions conducted during the four-day period has recorded a bigger increase. There are a total of 1,502 sessions of business matching, up 30.5% year-on-year, comprised of 800 sessions of project matching, 485 sessions of purchasing matching and 217 sessions of specialized trade matching. During the period of the 16th MIF, a total of 81 protocols have been signed (a year-on-year increase of 30.65%), which include 15 contracts, 51 memorandums, 8 letters of intent and 7 memorandums. The trades and industries concerned include tourism, cultural and creative areas, convention & exhibition, information technology, manufacturing, chemical industry, heavy industry, real estate, trade and commerce, human resources cooperation, Chinese medicine, environmental protection, products distributorship, health products, animals pasturage, food processing, and friendly cooperation between governments and trade associations. The signing parties come from Macao (49.01%), Mainland China (39.74%), Taiwan and Portugal (1.32%), Hong Kong (5.96%), Switzerland (0.66%) and Canada (0.66%). Summarising the business matching and agreements signed during the MIF this year, the position of MIF in regional economic and trade exchange service shall be to continue serving Macao's SMEs to utilize Macao's platform, in a variety of flexible business forms to deepen Macao's economic diversification and reinforce the role of a regional platform, enhance external economic exchange, promoting cooperation of the market of Mainland China with the counterparts in ASEAN, EU and Portuguese-speaking countries. Themed Exhibition and Sales Areas for SMEs to Explore Business Opportunities
MIF has been dedicated to serving the SMEs. The "SME International Business Days" have attracted a great number of SMEs to participate in business matching and promotional presentations. The results of the SME Exhibition are encouraging with a wide range of products and trading services being promoted to the Mainland and overseas markets. The International SME Exhibition Areas have drawn innumerous residents and visitors to make their purchases. The contents of this year are more enriched and diversified compared to last year, bringing good businesses to the exhibitors. Thus, the exhibition has enjoyed high popularity among the local SMEs as well as among the residents and visitors.
…

The 16th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF) continue to be open to the public today (22nd October). As this is the weekend, the MIF has drawn huge numbers of local residents and visitors, and many exhibition areas and booths were lined up with queues of shoppers. Upon conclusion of the third day, a total of 333 sessions of business matching have been conducted and 7 protocols signed. The 8th World Summit of Chinese Entrepreneurs
The 8th World Summit of Chinese Entrepreneurs was inaugurated this morning. The summit organizer has invited Dr. Chui Sai On, Chief Executive of Macao SAR to be the officiating guest. About 1,400 representatives of Chinese Entrepreneurs Associations from 36 countries and regions attended the summit and took part in the exhibition and programme of activities. Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute and Macao Economic Services Bureau have hosted dinners for the Chinese entrepreneurs to enhance business relations. Professional Forums and Networking Cocktail Receptions being held
Entering the third day, a number of trade and economic summits and forums were being held, which included "The Third Ceremony of Macau Businesswomen Association Supervisory Board" And "The 5th Macau Honor Board – Creative coffee shop contest awards Ceremony", "New Fortune (Macau) Forum: Macao SME Industry Investment and Development Forum & Hengqin International Trade and Investment Transfer Port Development Plan Seminar", "How can SME Achieve Expansion by Franchising", "Latin American Business and Tourism Seminar", "Managing the Risks of External Trade Business", and "Small Home Appliances Networking Cocktail Reception", among others. Trade visitors who are participating in the "One Trip, Multi-Stop" trips to Nansha, Zhuhai's Hengqin, Canton Fair and Macao excursion tours have embarked on their trips today. The same itineraries will be offered tomorrow. Meanwhile, the Jiangsu Week series of activities being held include the "Jiangsu-Macau Traditional Chinese Medicine Industry Seminar", "The Best Photo of Traveling in Jiangsu", "Jiangsu-Macau Cultural and Creative Industry Seminar" and "Seminar on Exchange between Calligraphers & Painters of Jiangsu and Macao". Hongmu (Mahogany/Rosewood) Furniture Pavilion showcases exquisite collections of mahogany/rosewood furniture and displays the mahogany/rosewood culture
The MIF this year features a large number of exhibition pavilions which include the Hongmu (mahogany/rosewood) Furniture Pavilion. This afternoon the organizer of the Pavilion held The Luxury of Hongmu (Mahogany/Rosewood) Furniture Development International Forum as well as a networking cocktail reception. The person in charge said that by organizing the extensive range of mahogany/rosewood furniture collections to be displayed in the MIF, it is hoped that by taking advantage of the strong influence of MIF in international trade and investment domain for the promotion of luxury mahogany/rosewood furniture brand culture, it will serve to promote business cooperation. More Business Matching Conducted and More Protocols Signed
On 22nd October, the 16th MIF conducted 333 sessions of business matching and 7 protocols were signed. The protocols signed are related to an agency contract of marine night vision systems, an agreement on the development and sales of waste water recycling and sea water desalination equipments, a letter of intention of sales agency of lighting products, an agreement on the establishment in Macao for the wholesaling and retailing of Jomoo brand intelligent, anti-bacterial and environmental toilet, a catering investment cooperation contract, and an agreement on cooperation of human resources. Upcoming Activities
The programme of activities for tomorrow include "Macao Brand Show", "CPTTM Fashion Design and Manufacturing - 2010/2011 Diploma Programme – Grad Show", and "The Best Photo of Traveling in Jiangsu". On 23rd October, there will be a lucky draw in which all residents and visitors are welcome to join. Visitors to the 16th MIF may enjoy up to 4 hours free parking at the guest car park of the Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel. Also, free shuttle bus service to and from the MIF venue will be available for both trade visitors and the public. For further enquiries about The 16th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF), please contact us at the hotline tel: (853) 2882 8711, fax: (853) 2882 8722 or visit our website at: www.mif.com.mo
…

The 16th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF) is open to the public today (20th October). A wide range of forums, seminars and presentations continue to be held. The different pavilions and exhibition areas have attracted the visits of many local residents, bringing good businesses to the sales areas. At the end of today, a total of 509 sessions of business matching have been conducted and 54 protocols signed, which are related to co-operation in tourism, framework agreement on Tongliao livestock park zone, separation and purification of high levels allicin with supercritical countercurrent-extraction jointed molecular distillation, distributorship of health food products, food waste recycling equipment, Paul Niehans development project, investment and sales of crystal and gemstone, intention to station in a shopping mall, waste recycling project, cultural collection project, supermarket expansion project, sole distributorship of waterfree urinals, cooperation in the establishment of a post-production filming company and digital filming technology training agreement, real estate project, meat processing, import of iron ore, among others. SME International Business Days – offer 4 thematic programmes of activities to nurture the SMEs in the exploration of business opportunities.
On 21st October, at noon, the 16th MIF organized the SME International Days Opening Ceremony. The "Business Days" feature a rich variety of services and thematic activities to help local SMEs expand their customer network and broaden business co-operation opportunities using the MIF platform. The activities include (1) Promotion of Macao Ideas; (2) SME Service Corner; (3) SME Promotion Incentive Package; and (4) seminars and presentations on topics of "franchising", "e-commerce" and "innovation and entrepreneurship as well as brand management". In addition, the Organiser has especially invited business consultants from Macao, Hong Kong and Taiwan to provide free on-site consultancy services to the SMEs on franchising and brand development. Meanwhile, the Organiser also provides a variety of information and advisory services, such as the One-Stop Service for doing business in Macao, provision of world market information, Macao and Mainland China legal advisory service, and advisory service for CEPA, convention and exhibition activities and franchising. Strengthen the Cooperation between Guangdong and Macao by Seizing the Opportunities in the Development of Hengqin Island and Nansha
To demonstrate our continuous support and assistance to Macao's business sectors for making investments in Hengqin Island and Nansha, the MIF has held the "Policy Innovation and Investment Promotion Seminar of Hengqin New Area" and "Nansha New Zone Investment Environment Seminar". Mr. Jackson Chang, President of Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute, Mr. Niu Jing, Director of The Administrative Committee of Hengqin New Area of Zhuhai, and Mr. Chen Guangjun, Director of Zhuhai Investment Promotion Bureau were present and delivered their speeches at the "Policy Innovation and Investment Promotion Seminar of Hengqin New Area", while Ms. Echo Chan, Executive Director of Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute and Mr. Fan Yue Hua, Director of Bureau of Economy and Trade, Nansha Economic and Technological Development Zone attended and spoke at the "Nansha New Zone Investment Environment Seminar".
The Organiser hopes that through the above seminars, it will effectively help Macao enterprises to understand the related policies and the various types of incentives and costs of investment in order to seize the business opportunities arising from the opening up of Hengqin Island and Nansha. Seminar on EU-Macao Business Opportunities "Cultural and Creative Industry Co-operation－Inspire, Innovate, Motivate"
On the second day of the 16th MIF, the "Seminar on EU-Macao Business Opportunities" was organized jointly by Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM), Institute of European Studies of Macau (IEEM), European Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong (ECCHK) and European Union Business Information Programme (EUBIP). It is the intention of the organizers of the seminar to give full play to Macao's advantage as a trade and business service platform in promoting the trade and economic exchange and collaboration between the cultural and creative industries of EU and Macao. The seminar has adopted the theme of "Cultural and Creative Industry Co-operation - Inspire, Innovate, Motivate". During the seminar, Mrs. Irene V. K. Lau, Executive Director of Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute delivered her welcome address. Moderated by Mr. José Luís de Sales Marques, President of Institute of European Studies of Macau (IEEM), member of the Committee of Cultural Industries of the Macao SAR Government, the seminar has invited Professor Pan Zhichang, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Arts of Macau University of Science and Technology, member of the Committee of Cultural Industries of the Macao SAR Government, Ms. Veronica Llorca, Project Director of European Union Business Information Programme (EUBIP), Mr. Gianluca Cinquepalmi, Managing Director of 1618 Group, Mr. Daniel Gumpert, Operations Director of RMJM architectural practice, Mr. Bruno Simões, Executive Director of SmallWorld Experience, and Mr. Ray Granlund of Panda Artist Management (Asia), to speak on the theme of the seminar: exploration of the latest development trends of the cultural and creative industries of EU and Macao, and the prospects and opportunities for cooperation among the cultural and creative industries in EU, Macao, Hong Kong and neighbouring regions. Some 110 representatives from the enterprises and chambers of commerce of EU, Mainland China, Macao and other countries and regions attended the seminar. Thematic Trade and Economic Promotional Activities to Develop Business Opportunities Apart from the above activities, the other thematic trade and economic seminars and presentations held on the second day of the 16th MIF included "Beijing-Macao-EU Cultural & Creative Industry Cooperation and Promotion Meeting & Signing Ceremony", "Shaanxi-Macao Economics and Trade Symposium", "Inner Mongolia & Macao Economic and Trade Cooperation Promotion Conference", "The Conference on Investment in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region", "Invest Yunnan Workshop 2011, Macao", "Anhui & Macau Cooperation and Exchange Forum", "EU Wine & Food Products Networking Cocktail Reception", "Beijing Cultural and Creative Company Business Matchmaking Meeting & Specialized Buyers Meeting", "Cultural and Creative Industry - Networking Cocktail Reception", and "E-commerce Seminar", etc. By way of these activities, the Organiser hopes that the participating Chinese provinces and municipalities are able to further advance effectively the advantages of the regimes and networks, to help Beijing's cultural and creative industries in "going out" to explore the world market, particularly the EU and Portuguese-speaking countries, and also help the "coming in" of foreign enterprises and investors in their businesses in Mainland China. Besides, at the Macau Tower, the "Macau Jiangsu Week Opening Ceremony", "Jiangsu – Macao‧Portuguese Speaking Countries Business Forum" and "The Best Photo of Traveling in Jiangsu" were held. More Highlighted Seminars and Presentations to be Held Tomorrow The 16th MIF will be organizing a vast range of seminars and presentations on the third day (22nd October), including "The 8th World Summit of Chinese Entrepreneurs", "The Luxury of Hongmu (Mahogany/Rosewood) Furniture Development International Forum", "Third Ceremony of Macau Businesswomen Association Supervisory Board" And The 5th Macau Honor Board – Creative coffee shop contest awards Ceremony", "New Fortune (Macau) Forum: Macao SME Industry Investment and Development Forum & Hengqin International Trade and Investment Transfer Port Development Plan Seminar", and more. Open to Public Tomorrow and More Facilitating Services for Visitors Free Shuttle Buses: The 16th MIF will continue to be open to the public from 22nd to 23rd Oct. Free shuttle bus service to and from the MIF venue will be available for both trade visitors and the public.
Parking: Holders of MIF admission ticket may enjoy up to 4 hours free parking at the guest car park of the Venetian from 21st to 23rd Oct. For further enquiries about The 16th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF), please contact us at the hotline tel: (853) 2882 8711, fax: (853) 2882 8722 or visit our website at: www.mif.com.mo
…

Information from the Statistics and Census Service indicated that the Composite CPI (111.48) for September 2011 increased by 6.51% year-on-year. The increment was driven by higher charges for meals bought away from home and dearer prices of gasoline. For the 12 months ended September 2011, the average Composite CPI increased by 5.11% from the previous period; the CPI-A and CPI-B rose by 4.78% and 5.28% respectively. In comparison with September 2010, significant increase was observed in the price index of Transport (+10.63%); Miscellaneous Goods & Services (+10.30%); Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages (+9.30%); and Clothing & Footwear (+7.00%) on account of dearer prices of gasoline, gold jewellery, airfare, women's clothing, fresh fish and fresh pork, as well as rising charges for meals bought away from home. On the contrary, price index of Communication decreased by 14.00% year-on-year upon lowered charges for internet service. The CPI-A (110.66) and CPI-B (111.85) for September 2011 increased by 6.15% and 6.75% respectively. The Composite CPI for September 2011 increased by 0.61% month-to-month, of which the price index of Education; Housing & Fuels; and Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages increased by 1.77%, 1.15% and 1.05% respectively. However, price index of Recreation & Culture and Clothing & Footwear fell by 1.39% and 1.36% respectively. The CPI-A and CPI-B increased by 0.78% and 0.60% respectively month-to-month. The Composite CPI for the third quarter of 2011 rose by 6.21% over the same quarter of 2010, with marked increase in the price index of Transport (+10.33%) and Miscellaneous Goods & Services (+10.14%). The CPI-A and the CPI-B increased by 5.89% and 6.41% year-on-year respectively. The average Composite CPI for the first nine months of 2011 increased by 5.49% year-on-year; the CPI-A and CPI-B rose by 5.15% and 5.68% respectively. The Composite CPI, with base year April 2008-March 2009, reflects the impact of price changes on the general population. The CPI-A relates to about 50% of the households, which have an average monthly expenditure of MOP6,000 to MOP18,999. The CPI-B relates to about 30% of the households, which have an average monthly expenditure of MOP19,000 to MOP34,999.
…

The International Tourism Research Centre (ITRC) of Institute for Tourism Studies (IFT) conducts research on Macao Tourist Satisfaction Index (MTSI) and Visitor Profile Study (VPS) regularly to monitor tourist satisfaction and to profile visitors. Up-to-date major findings of these studies are: Macao Tourist Satisfaction Index (MTSI) 1. Compared to the first half of 2010, the current trend for overall visitor satisfaction in Macao is declining.
2. Because satisfaction is driven by visitor's expectations, perceived service performance, and perception of value, it is our opinion that the main causes for declining visitor satisfaction are: high expectations of visitors, low service performance, and /or low perceived value (value is measured by time/money spent in relation to the service and product received).
3. Looking at only the most recent data, almost all sectors' performance in the first half of 2011 have not been as good compared to the whole of 2010. However, looking at all the eight quarters of data we have collected, the long term performance of the various sectors are as follows:
• Sectors performing above average: (a) events, (b) heritage and (c) non-heritage attractions. Over the last eight quarters, these sectors have scored above average on the MTSI. Events shows a small long term trend toward improving further but the heritage and non-heritage attractions sectors are showing long term trends of declining satisfaction.
• Sectors with average performance: (a) casinos, (b) retail shops, (c) tour guides/operators, and (d) transportation. The trend for casinos and transportation is stable—they are somehow able to maintain an average level of satisfaction even if the quarterly figures fluctuate. For retail shops and tour guide operators, however, the long term trend over the last 8 quarters is negative with satisfaction showing a declining trend for retail shops and tour guides/operators.
• Sectors with below average performance: (a) hotels, (b) immigration and (c) restaurants. The long term trend for hotels seems improving, restaurants is stable, but immigration shows a tendency to be declining over the long term. 4. Comparing Macao with other destinations for 2011, the following TSIs are reported:
• Hong Kong: 72.6
• Macao: 67.3 (for the first half of 2011 only)
• Shenzhen: 65.1
5. Unless vulnerable sectors adopt strategic, managerial and operational intervention, the overall long-term outlook for visitor satisfaction in Macao may continue to deteriorate for the future. Macao Visitor Profile Study (VPS) 6. Research shows that the types of visitors that spend the longest time visiting Macao are VFR (by purpose of visit), non-FIT (by trip type), first time visitors (by frequency of visit), S E Asian excluding those from Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan China (by source market), or group size of two people. On the other hand, visitors with the shortest length of stay are: shopping visitors, FIT, repeat visitors or those from Hong Kong.
7. Non-gambling visitors surveyed by ITRC report that their primary activities when visiting Macao are shopping and cuisine. There appears to be a growing trend for other tourism activities, such as attending MICE business, shows and concerts, especially among visitors from Taiwan China. On the other hand, SE Asian and Westerners exhibit a greater tendency for visiting Macao's heritage sites. 8. Only very small proportion of respondents shows unwillingness to visit Macao again. 9. For those who are unlikely to visit Macao again, their primary purpose of visit is visiting attractions; visitors that travelled as non-FIT and from the S E Asian countries. About the Macao Tourist Satisfaction Index (MTSI) Study Background The International Tourism Research Centre (ITRC) of IFT has been measuring the level of tourist satisfaction in Macao across various sectors in the tourism industry each quarter since mid-2009. Results across all sectors are combined to form an overall Macao Tourist Satisfaction Index (MTSI). The ten tourism related sectors measured include (a) casinos, (b) events, (c) heritage attractions, (d) hotels, (e) immigration services, (f) non-heritage attractions, (g) restaurants, (h) retail shops, (i) tour guides/operators, and (j) transportation services. The MTSI research is undertaken by ITRC in collaboration with Prof. Haiyan Song and his research team at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Tourism and Hotel Management, which developed the model used for measuring tourist satisfaction and also conducts the same research in Hong Kong (PolyU Tourist Satisfaction Index). Together and with similar research conducted by partners in other countries, results obtained in Macao can be compared with those in Hong Kong , Singapore and Shenzhen (to date), thereby allowing a certain degree of comparison in terms of competitive performance of various tourism destinations in the region. Methodology The MTSI is measured using a field survey in which respondents are selected and interviewed based on a systematic sampling technique. Interviews with visitors are conducted at major tourist sites and transport terminals. Altogether, 2001 interviews were conducted for 2010 and 1264 interviews have been conducted in the first two quarters of 2011. The TSI is an index comprised of the average responses to three questions asked in the survey for all sectors: the overall satisfaction, evaluation when being compared with tourists' expectations and sectors' ideal performance. Results for each sector are transformed and reported on a scale ranging from 0- to 100-points wherein the higher the score on the index, the more satisfied the tourists. The overall TSI for Macao is the average of all ten sectoral TSIs. Beginning September 2011, results of the overall MTSI are reported as quarterly to capture the overall tourist satisfaction whereas sectoral TSI results will be released in annual basis. Nevertheless, the quarterly compiled data will suggest more clearly directions of seasonal and the long-term trends. Results The latest findings covering the last eight quarters (Q3 2009 to Q2 2011) shows a decline of MTSI from 70.4 (Q3 2009) to 68.5 (Q2 2011). In addition, the most recent data collected over 2010 to present indicate the following satisfaction levels for each of the 10 sectors in Macao as well as overall (with 100 being the highest score): Table 1: Quarterly sectoral TSIs and overall MTSI (Q2 2009 to Q2 2011)
( Plesae find the attached file.) What this means for Macao's tourism industry • In light of the Central and Macao SAR Government's thrust to transform Macao into a Global Center of Tourism and Leisure, there is an urgent concern to ensure that the different sectors making up Macao's tourism industry remain competitive and aware of their service performance levels in satisfying visitors.
• Given that more data over a longer period of time has been collected by ITRC, it is becoming clear that some service sectors are more vulnerable or less capable in satisfying visitors over time. Interventions in terms of initial and ongoing training of front-line staff, enhancing quality of recruitment and reviewing the myriad and complex factors driving service performance of front line staff be initiated by institutions relevant in each sector and conducted in collaboration with relevant public agencies.
• In the mean time, service providers need to replace some of their labor-intensive operations by automated systems. • Since the tourism and hospitality industries are "people-oriented", we may need to rethink about the labor policy. The current policy seems to affect the small and medium firms (e.g., restaurants and retail shops) the most especially during public holidays because many of them would rather close their business during holidays due to high labor cost. Yet, these are usually peak periods with record high tourist arrivals. As a result, tourists, and residents to some extent, would flock to restaurants and stores that remain open during holidays. This creates a vicious cycle, which further deteriorates the service performance and value of the tourism offerings. About the Visitor Profile Study (VPS) Methodology Data comes from field surveys of visitors conducted between Q4 2009 to Q2 2011 with a sample size of 5,016 visitors. Location interviews are carried out at popular tourist attractions and border entry points. Details of results
The average length of stay for VFR and business visitors is 3.1 days and 2.4 days with 81% and 72% stay over 1 day respectively; non-FIT (average 2.5 days) with 88% stay over 1 day; first time visitors (average 2.6 days) with 79% stay over 1 day; and S E Asian visitors (average 3.3 days) with 89% stay over 1 day. On the other hand, visitors with the shortest length of stay are: pleasure visitors (average 2.0 days), FIT (average 2.1 days), repeat visitors (2.1 days) and those from Hong Kong (1.7 days). (Table 2) Table 2: The trip characteristics segmented by length of stay (Please find the attached file) Shopping and cuisine are the main activities of visiting Macao. The trend of other activities is mixed. Other tourism activities include MICE business, visiting world heritage sites as well as attending shows, concerts and special events. There are seasonal fluctuations for the overall trend of attending MICE business. There is a notable growth among visitors from Mainland China and Taiwan China. For Q2 2011, the proportion increased by 300% and 57% year-on-year respectively. As for the Shows, Concerts and Special Events, there is a steady growing trend among visitors from Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan China. For Q2 2011, the proportion increased by 350%, 250% and 220% year-on-year respectively. The overall proportion for visiting Attractions and Heritage remained above 40% from Q2 2010 to Q2 2011. Visitors from other SE Asian and Western countries showed the most significant increase with a year-on-year growth of 11% and 38% respectively. (Table 3) Table 3: The proportions* of visitors who undertake the following activities during their visits in Macao
(please find the attached file) Regarding the revisit intention, there are only 4% of the total respondents indicated that they are unlikely to visit Macao again. Among those visitors, 33% of them came to Macao mainly for visiting attractions and 20% mainly for shopping. More than 40% of them are first-time visitors. As for the source market, visitors from Hong Kong are likely to revisit Macao again while Taiwanese and other SE Asian are relatively unlikely to return. (Table 4) Table 4: Intention of revisit Macao again segmented by trip characteristics
(Please find the attached file) • Results show that visitors from Taiwan and other S E Asia stay the longest and more of them among those who appear to be unlikely to revisit Macao. However, the trend shows that the former has an increase interest to attend the MICE business while the latter has an interest to visit world heritage attractions. It would be beneficial to putting more effort in promoting the MICE business and world heritage activities to meet their interest accordingly. • As per the current trend in tourism activities by overall visitors, there is a potential to diversify the tourism activities by increasing effort to promote shows and concerts because there is a steady growth in the year-on-year trend especially among visitors from Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan China.
• As those with the primary purpose of visiting attractions are unlikely to revisit Macao, the government, industry and relevant agencies should work together to develop more attractions so as to retain this market. • Relatively, non-FIT visitors stay longer than FIT visitors, but about 10% of them are unlikely to visit Macao again. There is a need to attract them by diversifying tourism activities in addition to the existing tour package.
…

Following the conferment of the Degree of Doctor of Letters honoris causa upon Dr. Louis Cha Leung Yung, who is better known by his pen name Jin Yong, earlier this year, the University of Macau (UM) will confer honorary doctorates upon another three distinguished individuals, namely the renowned scientist Prof. Francisco J. Ayala, the newspaper magnate Mr. Lei Seng Chon, and the esteemed educator Prof. Woo Chia Wei, in recognition of their outstanding contributions in their respective fields. The ceremony will take place on 5 November. Besides the honorary doctorates, higher degrees will also be conferred at the ceremony. UM Chancellor and Chief Executive of Macao SAR Dr. Chui Sai On will preside over the ceremony. Because this year marks the 30th anniversary of the university, a gala dinner in celebration of the anniversary will be held following the ceremony. Prof. Francisco J. Ayala will be conferred the Degree of Doctor of Science honoris causa. Prof. Ayala is a renowned scientist committed to the studies of evolutional genetics and molecular biology. He is University Professor and Donald Bren Professor of Biological Sciences at the University of California, Irvine. He was a member of the U.S. President's Committee of Advisors on Science and Technology, the president and chairman of the Board of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and the president of Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society of the U.S. Prof. Ayala has published more than one thousand articles and is the author or editor of forty books. Prof. Ayala is a member of the United States National Academy of Science as well as the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. He has received numerous honours, including the 2001 National Medal of Science from former U.S. President George W. Bush, the 2010 Templeton Prize for his exceptional contributions to affirming life's spiritual dimension, from HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, at a private ceremony in Buckingham Palace, London. Mr. Lei Seng Chon will be conferred the Degree of Doctor of Humanities honoris causa. Mr. Lei is a newspaper magnate. In 1958, he co-founded the Macao Daily News with his friends, and successively served as manager, vice-editor-in-chief, editor-in-chief, and director of the newspaper. He is currently the president of the board of directors of the Macao Daily News and the Macao Culture & Media Group, honorary member of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles, and member of the Chinese Writers' Association. He was a deputy to the seventh People's Congress of Guangdong Province, member of the National Committee of the eighth and ninth Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CCPCC), deputy to the ninth National People's Congress (NPC), member of the Drafting Committee for the Basic Law of the Macao SAR, member of the Preparatory Committee of the Macao SAR, member of the Election Committee of the Chief Executive of the Macao SAR, deputy-director of the Macao SAR Basic Law Committee under the Standing Committee of NPC (for two terms). For many years, he has spared no effort to advance culture, public welfare and education, making important contributions to the stability and prosperity of Macao. He was awarded the Golden Medal of Lotus Flower and the Grand Medal of Lotus Flower by the Macao SAR government, in 2002 and 2009, respectively. Prof. Woo Chia Wei will be conferred the Degree of Doctor of Social Sciences honoris causa. Prof. Woo is a renowned educator. He was the founding president of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), and is also President Emeritus and University Professor Emeritus at HKUST. He now serves as independent non-executive director on the boards of Lenovo Group, Shanghai Industrial Holdings, and First Shanghai Investments. He published one hundred and twenty papers and books in various fields of physics. In 1983, Prof. Woo was appointed president of San Francisco State University (SFSU), becoming the first Chinese American to head a renowned university in the U.S. In 1988, he returned to Hong Kong and founded the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), and within a short time he turned HKUST into a first-rate university. He received many honours and awards for his professional achievements and contributions to society, including the Gold Bauhinia Star from the Hong Kong SAR government, the CBE (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) from the Queen of the United Kingdom Elizabeth II, and the Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur from the president of France.
…

Consumer Council released its latest 'Supermarket Price Survey' dated 18th October, covering prices of 277 samples from 14 retail outlets. Prices of around half of the surveyed products remained stable or decreased lightly while price increases were mainly observed in cooking oil and seasoning. In the current survey, average prices of half of the 23 surveyed cooking oil samples had risen from 1-2 per cent; for seasoning, 'Maggi Chicken Bouillon (270g)' recorded a price upsurge of over 8 per cent. Price increases were observed in many canned food brands last month, though prices of some brands reflected slight decrease in the current survey, 'Ma Ling Premium Ham Luncheon Meat (340g)' had increased notably in price for about 11 per cent. 'Ma Ling Premium Ham Luncheon Meat (340g)' also showed obvious price increases in the specific price survey on canned foods conducted on 17th October. Consumers have to pay attention to notable price discrepancies of up to almost 50 per cent for the mentioned product being sold in different outlets. A new item of luncheon meat imported from mainland China was also added to both of the surveys to provide consumers a more comprehensive selection. Consumer Council indicated that in comparison with last month's survey, prices of rice recorded this month remained stable, infant formula and milk products, as well as household cleaning products all decreased slightly in prices. However, one exception, 'Kao Kitchen Magiclean – Regular (500ml)', recorded a price increase of almost 40 per cent. Both 'Supermarket Price Survey' and specific price survey on canned foods are now available on the Council's website (www.consumer.gov.mo). Reports are also available free of charge at the offices of Consumer Council, IACM's Iao Hon and S. Domingos Markets, bookstores and libraries. Consumers may also access the resources through WAP channels on their mobile phones. For inquiries, please call 8988 9315.
…

The Seminar on "Water and Law – Global, Regional and Local Responses", which is organized by the Legal and Judicial Training Centre and integrated as part of the 2nd EU-Macao Co-operation Programme in the Legal Field, will hold on October 24th – 28th (Monday – Friday), at 5:00 p.m – 7:00 p.m. in the Multi-function Room of the Law Reform and International Law Bureau located on Alameda Dr. Carlos D' Assumpção, n. ° 398, CNAC building, 6th floor. The Seminar will be conducted in English, with simultaneous translation into Cantonese and Portuguese, will feature as its keynote speakers Professor Paulo Jorge Tavares Canelas de Castro, Associate Professor of Faculty of Law, University of Macao and Professor Joana Mendes, Assistant Professor at the Amsterdam Centre for European Law and Governance, University of Amsterdam. The following topics will be discussed: 1.Introductory remarks: Current issues of water law A.Water quantities and water diversions
B.Water quality and the environmental problem
C.Water and climate change
D.Water as an economic good: costs recovery; economic analysis and economic incentives; liberalisation of water transfers; privatization of water services
E.Water as a human right
F.Procedural obligations
G.Implementation, enforcement and dispute settlement methods 2.Legal background and factors of change: The old and current paradigms of water law 3.The new global response A.United Nations Convention on the Law of International Watercourses
B.'Soft Law' instruments
C.The rulings of the International Court of Justice 4.The new regional responses A.International law UNECE (the Espoo and Helsinki Conventions)
SADC (the 1995 and 2000 Protocols) B.European law: the particular case of the European Union a.The EU Water Framework Directive: shifting paradigm in law The evolution of EU water law
The fundamental concepts of the Water Framework Directive
The instruments of the Water Framework Directive b.The Common Implementation Strategy: shifting paradigm in implementation Old paradigm of implementation
A new mode of governance c.Expansion of the EU model? The interrelationship between EU water law, the Convention on the Protection of the Rhine, the Danube River Protection Convention, the Luso-Spanish Convention 5.The new local responses: the case of Portugal A.Problems of transposition of the Water Framework Directive
B.Main instruments of the Law 58/2005, of 29th December 6.Conclusion: Towards a fundamental paradigm-shift in contemporary water law? The 2nd EU-Macao Co-operation Programme in the Legal Field, which incorporates this seminar, has as its main objective the "Consolidation of the Macao Legal System" and will take place until December 2012. The execution of this Programme is organised by the Law Reform and International Law Bureau (DSRJDI), with the participation of several other MSAR's entities and public departments, namely, the Legal and Judicial Training Centre (CFJJ), the Legal Affairs Bureau (DSAJ), the Economic Services (DSE), the Financial Services Bureau (DSF) and the Institute of European Studies of Macao (IEEM).
…

The 16th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF), the annual trade and economic event of Macao, inaugurated today (20th October 2011). On the first day of the Fair, 536 sessions of business matching were conducted and 15 protocols signed. Grand Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony was held this morning in the Sicily Room of the Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel, in the presence of over 350 delegations from more than 60 countries and regions. Officiating guests included Dr. Chui Sai On, Chief Executive of Macao SAR, Mr. Bai Zhijian, Director General of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Macao SAR, Mr. Zhou Bo, Deputy Director of Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Ms. Helena Nosolini Embaló, Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Integration, Guinea-Bissau, Mr. João Mendes Gonçalves, Minister of Economy and Development of East Timor, Mr. Hu Zhengyue, Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Macao SAR, Mr. Zhang Weiguo, Vice Governor of the People's Government of Jiangsu Province, Ms. Hua Jianhui, Vice Governor of the People's Government of Anhui Province, Mr. Li Rui, Vice Governor of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Mr. Ye Shuangyu, Vice Governor of the People's Government of Fujian Province, Mr. Hong Lihe, Vice Governor of the People's Government of Jiangxi Province, Mr. Xiao Yayu, Deputy Director of Hunan Provincial People's Congress Standing Committee, Mr. Francis Tam Pak Yuen, Secretary for Economy and Finance of the Macao SAR, Mr. Yu Ping, Vice chairman of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), Mr. Liu Zhiqiang, Vice Chairman of All-China Federation of Industry & Commerce, Mr. Tang Bingquan, Vice Chairman of Guangdong Provincial Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Mr. Fang Xiaofang, Vice Chairman of Sichuan Provincial Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Mr. Zhao Jie, Representative of the Vice Governor of the People's Government of Heilongjiang Province, and Mr. Cheong Chou Weng, President of Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute. The theme of MIF this year "Co-operation – Key to Business Opportunities" aims to make use of Macao's unique advantage of a blending of eastern and western cultures, to effectively advance the role of a regional trade and business service platform, where exhibitors and guests from all over the world showcase their products, services and technologies, deepen mutual understanding and connection, promote bilateral exchanges, and embrace together a new round of business opportunities for co-operation and development, said Secretary Francis Tam Pak Yuen in his address to the opening ceremony. International Trade and Investment Forum 2011
A multitude of forums, seminars and presentations will be held during the MIF period. Among others, the "International Trade and Investment Forum 2011" held this afternoon served as the most important forum of the MIF every year. In recent years, the Forum had invited high level personalities and prominent experts from around the world to be keynote speakers. The officiating guests of the Forum this year included Mr. Francis Tam Pak Yuen, Secretary for Economy and Finance of the Macao SAR, Ms. Helena Nosolini Embaló, Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Integration, Guinea-Bissau, Mr. João Mendes Gonçalves, Minister of Economy and Development of East Timor, and Mr. Cao Yuanzheng, Chief Economist of Bank of China. During the Forum, Secretary Francis Tam Pak Yuen delivered the opening remarks, followed by the speeches of the keynote speakers, namely Ms. Helena Nosolini Embaló, Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Integration, Guinea-Bissau, Mr. João Mendes Gonçalves, Minister of Economy and Development of East Timor, Mr. Yu Ping, Vice chairman of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), Mr. Liu Zhiqiang, Vice Chairman of All-China Federation of Industry & Commerce, and Mr. Kou Hoi In, President of the Board of Directors, Macao Chamber of Commerce. With the theme of "Regional Co-operation to Explore New Development", the speakers have carried out in-depth explorations into the global economic development trends, the role of Macao as a trade and business service platform between China and the Portuguese-speaking countries, and the promotion of exchange and co-operation in green industries business opportunities, technological innovation and nurturing of talents in the region. Besides, Mr. Cao Yuanzheng, Chief Economist of Bank of China and receiver of special subsidy granted by the State Council, delivered his speech entitled "China in the Rebalancing of the World Economy". The Forum was well attended by some 300 representatives from the government entities, trade and investment promotion organizations, chambers of commerce and enterprises from Macao, Hong Kong, Portuguese-speaking countries and other overseas countries. Numerous Business Matching Sessions Conducted and Protocols Signed on First Day
On 20th October, the first day of MIF conducted as many as 536 sessions of business matching and 15 protocols were signed. The protocols signed were related to a four-star resort hotel project and extension, a friendly co-operation alliance agreement, a cooperation project for the utilization of kitchen wastes, the restructuring of a rice company of Heilongjiang Province, a dealer contract of Apple products, an investment contract for a sea travel project in Macao, co-operation in the production of LED environmental friendly lighting goods, sole distributorship of coffee products in Hong Kong and Macao, distributorship of garments, health products and floor boards. More Highlighted Seminars and Presentations Tomorrow
The 16th MIF will be organizing a vast array of seminars and presentations on the second day, including "Beijing-Macao-EU Cultural & Creative Industry Cooperation and Promotion Meeting & Signing Ceremony", "Policy Innovation and Investment Promotion Seminar of Hengqin New Area", "Beijing Cultural and Creative Company Business Matchmaking Meeting & Specialized Buyers Meeting", "SME International Business Days Opening Ceremony and Protocol Signing Ceremony", "E-commerce Seminar (Alibaba.com and Taobao.com)", Seminar on EU-Macao Business Opportunities "Cultural and Creative Industry Co-operation－Inspire, Innovate, Motivate", "Nansha New Zone Investment Environment Seminar", and "How to Turn Good Ideas into Franchise Businesses", and more. Open to Public Tomorrow and More Facilitating Services for Visitors
 Free Shuttle Buses: The 16th MIF will be open to the public from 21st to 23rd Oct. Free shuttle bus service to and from the MIF venue will be available for both trade visitors and the public.  Parking: Holders of MIF admission ticket may enjoy up to 4 hours free parking at the guest car park of the Venetian from 21st to 23rd Oct. For further enquiries about The 16th Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF), please contact us at the hotline tel: (853) 2882 8711, fax: (853) 2882 8722 or visit our website at: www.mif.com.mo
…