Gastronomic leader

In November 2017, Macao was named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the third city in China to be awarded the honor after Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province, and Shunde, Guangdong province. The designation was in recognition of Macao's 400-year-old culinary traditions.

Under China's 12th Five-Year Plan (2011-15), Macao was positioned as a World Center of Tourism and Leisure.

Macao government trade missions were accompanied by representatives from businesses such as the Koi Kei Bakery. Showcasing their products across the mainland, they increased awareness of local cuisine.

Macao's public sector has also awarded grants to encourage innovation in the tourism industry. Since the middle of this year, vendors with proposals for creative culinary projects have been able to apply for government funding.

Macao has also strengthened its links with the Greater Bay Area, in coordination with its closest neighbor-Zhuhai, Guangdong-jointly organizing cultural events for local residents. The Bay Area comprises nine cities in Guangdong plus Macao and Hong Kong.