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 milestone was announced during the Macao-Hengqin MICE Enterprises & ICCA Bay Area Members Seminar 2026, held at Tianmu Qintai in Hengqin, which brought together over 100 industry representatives 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, served as a platform to discuss the implications of this new membership. Lin Yanjie, Head of the Culture, Tourism, Exhibition, and Trade Division, and Dr. Sherry Tan, Associate Professor at the Macao University of Tourism, shared their perspectives on how joining ICCA could accelerate the region's integration into the global MICE network.
This development comes at a time when Macao-Hengqin MICE cooperation has entered a phase of regularized and sustainable growth, supported by robust policy frameworks, operational models, and talent development initiatives. A key policy driver 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, along with additional special incentives. Moreover, enterprises obtaining ICCA accreditation for the first time will receive a one-off reward of RMB 200,000, further strengthening support for MICE market players.
The collaborative model between Macao and Hengqin continues to evolve, with efforts to build a strong talent pipeline progressing in tandem. 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 significantly enhance Macao-Hengqin's international visibility and influence, while strengthening its voice in the global MICE industry.
According to industry experts, the official ICCA membership will provide Hengqin with access to a vast network of global event planners, association executives, and industry leaders, facilitating knowledge exchange and best practices. It also positions the region to compete more effectively for international congresses, leveraging its unique advantages as part of the Guangdong-Macao deep cooperation zone.
The seminar highlighted the strategic importance of this move, emphasizing that it aligns with the broader goals of diversifying Macao's economy and fostering innovation. With the support of favorable policies and international partnerships, the Macao-Hengqin MICE industry is poised for significant growth, contributing to the region's economic development and global standing.
