MECC Releases 2025 Business Sentiment Survey Report with USJ-FBL
MECC Releases 2025 Business Sentiment Survey Report with USJ-FBL
10
Feb
10/02/2026
The survey, conducted by Macau European Chamber of Commerce (MECC) and USJ Faculty of Business and Law, collected responses from 27 foreign-linked enterprises to understand their views on Macao’s economy, policies, and regional cooperation.
On 9 February 2026, the Macau European Chamber of Commerce (MECC) held a press conference at the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) for the release of its “2025 Business Sentiment Survey Report”. The survey, conducted jointly with the USJ Faculty of Business and Law, collected responses from 27 foreign-linked enterprises to understand their views on Macao’s economy, policies, and regional cooperation.
Despite global challenges, the report reveals cautious optimism among businesses regarding Macao and the region’s prospects, with particular opportunities seen in technology, regional integration, and talent mobility.
Mr. Rui Pedro Cunha, MECC Executive Vice President and survey convener, stated the aim was to gain a “clear, data-driven understanding” of the business climate to identify opportunities and challenges. He thanked the University’s contributors and reaffirmed MECC’s role as a bridge for dialogue and cooperation.
Prof. Jenny Lao Phillips, Dean of the USJ Faculty of Business and Law, noted the data reflects corporate adaptability and strategic alignment with Macau’s and the national development goals. Key Findings of the survey are:
- Modestly Improved Outlook: Companies show a slight rebound in 2025 expectations, holding neutral-to-positive views on regional economic integration.
- Stable Investment Intentions: Most firms plan to maintain or increase investment in Macao, focusing on new revenue streams and localisation.
- Tech Innovation Priority: 70.4% prioritise technology and AI in R&D, engaging actively with digital economy trends.
- Hengqin’s Appeal Recognised: Cost advantages, market access, and alignment with Macao’s “1+4” diversification strategy attract enterprises to Hengqin.
- Strong Regional Cooperation Base: Over 60% have partnerships with Mainland entities, underscoring close ties within the Greater Bay Area and Macao’s platform role.
- Minimal External Political Impact: Most companies see EU and US political environments as having little effect on their Macao operations.
A roundtable discussion with working group members Dr. Rui Pedro Cunha, Prof. Jenny Phillips, Mr José Duarte, Dr. José Luís Sales Marques, Mr Niall Murray, Mr Seamus Ma, and special guest Mr João Pinto was held after the presentation of the report result. The discussion centred on the report’s findings, focusing on how to assist foreign-linked companies in capitalising on the business opportunities arising from the development of Macao and neighbouring regions, including deepening cooperative relationships with various sectors of Macao society, introducing new technologies or business models, expanding investment in Macao and surrounding areas, and jointly promoting the appropriate diversification of Macao’s economy.
