The Macao SAR Government plans to support the entry of traditional Chinese medicine products into European markets by 2030, with Portugal serving as a gateway. The strategy is part of the Third Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the MSAR (2026–2030).

The document aims to strengthen co-operation with Infarmed – National Authority of Medicines and Health Products – and Portugal’s Directorate-General for Food and Veterinary, as well as to provide information support for the international registration of these products. Portuguese-speaking countries are identified as one of the gateways for the sector’s international expansion.

The strategy brings together the resources of Macao and the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. Pharmaceutical companies will be able to register their products in Macao, manufacture them in Hengqin and receive support to access other markets. Macao also aims to attract pharmaceutical companies from mainland China.

The plan also provides for supporting the international expansion of other Chinese companies and gradually increasing exports of chemical medicines, biological products and medical devices. The initiative aims to consolidate Macao’s role as a bridge between China and Portuguese-speaking countries.

(Source: Plataforma Media, 19 Auguest)