Visit to MIECF: Macao International Environmental Forum & Exhibition

On March 28, 2024, Rodrigo Brum, the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Portuguese-Speaking Countries in the Greater Bay Area of Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Macau, made a significant appearance at the Macau International Conference and Exhibition Forum (MICEF). This annual event, one of the premier trade shows in Macau, brings together international leaders, investors, and business professionals with a focus on global trade, investment opportunities, and economic development.

Brum's attendance at MICEF 2024 underscored his commitment to fostering strong business relations and enhancing economic cooperation between Portuguese-speaking countries and China, particularly within the dynamic context of the Greater Bay Area. As the leader of the Chamber, Brum has been instrumental in advancing strategic partnerships between the Portuguese-speaking world and China, promoting collaboration in trade, innovation, and investment.

Strengthening Economic Ties

During his visit, Rodrigo Brum participated in high-level discussions and roundtable meetings with key stakeholders, including government officials, trade experts, and representatives from the private sector. The focus of these meetings was to explore new avenues for economic cooperation between the Greater Bay Area and Portuguese-speaking countries, including Brazil, Portugal, Angola, and Mozambique, among others.

Brum highlighted the unique opportunities that Macau offers as a bridge between China and the Lusophone world, emphasizing the city's role as a hub for trade, finance, and culture. "Macau serves as a gateway for Portuguese-speaking countries to engage with China, especially with the fast-growing economies in the Greater Bay Area," he said during his keynote address at the opening ceremony. He further stressed that enhancing trade relations could lead to mutual benefits, including greater access to markets, increased investment flows, and the sharing of technological expertise.

Promoting Innovation and Investment

At MICEF 2024, innovation and sustainable development were at the heart of the discussions. Brum addressed how the Chamber of Commerce is working to drive technological collaboration between businesses in China and Portuguese-speaking countries. Special attention was given to sectors like renewable energy, smart city development, and digital transformation. These areas are seen as crucial for fostering sustainable growth and addressing global challenges like climate change.

Brum also took part in a panel on "Investment Opportunities in the Lusophone World," where he discussed the importance of creating favorable conditions for foreign investors in Portuguese-speaking countries. He called for stronger partnerships to facilitate knowledge transfer, enhance the regulatory environment, and ensure the development of critical infrastructure that supports long-term investment.

Expanding Trade Networks

A key highlight of Brum’s visit was his meeting with executives from leading Chinese companies, where discussions focused on expanding trade networks and improving the flow of goods and services between China and Lusophone countries. Brum emphasized the potential for Portuguese-speaking countries to export agricultural products, raw materials, and other key resources to China, while also encouraging more Chinese businesses to explore opportunities in these countries.

"By fostering deeper ties, we can help bridge the gap between our markets and create stronger, more resilient supply chains," Brum stated.

Future Prospects

Rodrigo Brum’s participation in MICEF 2024 is part of a broader strategy to position the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Portuguese-Speaking Countries as a key player in the global economy. With the Greater Bay Area emerging as a critical economic region, Brum's leadership is vital in promoting increased collaboration and ensuring that Portuguese-speaking countries are well-integrated into the region’s growth trajectory.

Looking ahead, Brum expressed optimism about the future of relations between China and the Lusophone world, noting that initiatives like MICEF provide an excellent platform for dialogue, collaboration, and growth. "We are paving the way for stronger cooperation, greater innovation, and shared prosperity between our nations," he concluded.

As Macau continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating international trade and investment, the participation of influential leaders like Rodrigo Brum at events such as MICEF 2024 serves to further cement its importance on the global stage.