Technology will be ‘driving force’ of Macau’s evolution from gambling spot to innovation hub, chief executive says

Alibaba’s Joe Tsai cites generative AI technology as a factor that could help Macau to diversify beyond gaming into entertainment and innovation

Leaders including Guangdong’s governor, commentator Andrew Sheng cite collaboration as crucial at event focusing on city’s future

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An aerial view of Macau taken in 2019. Photo: Nora Tam

Published: 6:15pm, 10 May 2023Updated: 6:43pm, 10 May 2023

The development of technology, including generative artificial intelligence (AI), can help Macau to diversify from its traditional focus on gaming into a hub for entertainment and innovation, industry and government leaders have said at a Macau convention.

Macau’s Chief Executive Ho Iat-seng said “technology is the driving force for development”, stressing that collaboration among all sectors is important for transforming Macau into a leading innovative city.

The remarks came on Wednesday during Beyond Expo, billed as Asia’s largest annual expo for tech innovation trends, held in Macau.

“Macau is well positioned to be an innovation hub given its international free port, its politically neutral stance [and its] preferential business and foreign-trade environment,” said Ho.

Macau chief executive Ho Iat-seng addresses the Beyond Expo in Macau on May 10, 2023. Photo: Handout

Wang Weizhong, the governor of Guangdong province, echoed these sentiments. Technology can bring different cities together to create a more prosperous future, and the future of the region will require even more collaboration between Macau, Hong Kong and Guangdong, he said.

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