The Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute of the Macao SAR Government (IPIM) is the official government agency responsible for promoting trade, investment, and the internationalization of Macao’s economy. With a comprehensive suite of business support services, IPIM plays a pivotal role in facilitating cross-border commerce, hosting international business events, and positioning Macao as a dynamic hub for regional and global cooperation.
Organization Background
IPIM was established by the Government of the Macao Special Administrative Region to attract investment, support local enterprises, and strengthen economic ties between Macao, mainland China, Portuguese-speaking countries (PSC), and the international business community. With its central location and status as a free port and separate customs territory, Macao is uniquely positioned as a platform for trade and services between China and the world.
Core Functions
IPIM’s operations focus on:
- Investment Promotion Services
- Trade Promotion Activities
- MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) Facilitation
- China-PSC Business Facilitation
By offering a wide range of consultative and support services, IPIM enhances Macao’s appeal as a regional business center and investment destination.
Services Offered
Investment Promotion Services
- Business Matching and Investment Support
- One-stop Service for Business Setup
- Investment Residency Applications
- Market Research and Industry Reports
- Support for Business Transformation and Upgrading
Trade Promotion Services
- Export Promotion and Trade Missions
- Business Delegation Hosting
- Cross-border Collaboration Programs
- Brand Building and Certification Guidance
MICE Industry Support
- Event Coordination and Venue Sourcing
- Financial Incentives for International Exhibitions and Conferences
- Promotion of Macao as a MICE Destination
- Support for Industry Clusters via Themed Exhibitions
China–PSC Business Compass
- Facilitating Trade and Investment with Portuguese-speaking Countries
- Language, Legal, and Cultural Support Services
- Business Introduction and Matchmaking between China and PSC Markets
Specialization and Core USP
IPIM stands out for:
- Acting as a strategic bridge between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries, with dedicated platforms and multilingual services
- Providing end-to-end support for investors and exporters entering or expanding in Macao
- Organizing some of Asia’s most influential trade and investment exhibitions
- Offering fiscal and policy incentives to encourage international investment in key sectors such as tourism, modern finance, technology, and logistics
Economic Impact and Insights
- Macao’s total trade value in 2023 exceeded MOP 170 billion, with the support of IPIM-led initiatives and international trade fairs
- Over 2,300 investment projects and business referrals were facilitated by IPIM in the last five years
- Through the “One-Stop Service for Investors”, IPIM assisted in the establishment of hundreds of foreign-funded enterprises
- The MICE incentive program supported over 180 exhibitions and conventions annually
International Trade Fairs and Platforms
IPIM is the organizer or key partner behind several flagship platforms:
- Macao International Trade and Investment Fair (MIF): The longest-standing trade event in Macao, attracting over 50,000 participants annually
- Macao Franchise Expo (MFE): Focused on franchising, chain stores, and SME partnerships
- International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum (IIICF): A platform for infrastructure connectivity and Belt & Road collaboration
- Macao Ideas: An export promotion platform for showcasing local branded products
Target Stakeholders
IPIM’s services benefit:
- International investors exploring business opportunities in Macao or the Greater Bay Area
- Local SMEs aiming for market expansion or product export
- Multinational corporations seeking trade partnerships in Asia
- MICE organizers and industry associations
Capabilities
- Multilingual support (Chinese, Portuguese, English)
- Custom-built online platforms for virtual matchmaking and exhibition access
- Comprehensive policy advisory services
- Close collaboration with over 30 trade promotion bodies globally
Certifications and Compliance
IPIM operates in accordance with:
- Macao SAR Government regulations and trade laws
- International trade promotion standards
- Environmental and safety regulations for MICE event support
Stakeholder Testimonials
“IPIM has provided critical support in helping us establish our Greater Bay Area strategy through exhibitions and government coordination.”
— CEO, ASEAN Manufacturing Group
“Their one-stop services for setting up a business in Macao made the process extremely efficient and transparent.”
— Foreign Entrepreneur, European Food Importer
Major Achievements
- Facilitated bilateral trade agreements and cooperation with multiple Portuguese-speaking countries
- Hosted over 250 major international events in partnership with global trade agencies
- Developed the “Macao Ideas” platform to boost exports for more than 100 local brands
- Established PSC Business Service Centre as a unique global interface for China-PSC relations
IPIM continues to drive Macao’s strategic role in regional integration and global economic development, enabling investors and businesses to thrive through policy support, connectivity, and opportunity.
