“The EU has worked to anticipate that moment by listing Macau SAR with Hong Kong and mainland China as eligible for the resumption of non-essential travel
to the EU on the basis of reciprocity,” Gnocchi stated.

Currently, non-residents coming from outside Greater China are not allowed to enter Macau unless under special requirements set by local authorities.

Gnocchi indicated to MNA that the main concerns of the local EU business community consisted mainly of how to face the current economic downturn caused by the pandemic and when travel restrictions would be eased.

“Businesses are assessing the economic situation in the SAR. The resumption of visas for mainland residents to travel to Macau has allowed for what seems to be modest recovery in tourist arrivals. This is an encouraging development, but figures remain too low to guarantee a full economic recovery,” the EU representative pointed out.

“Another main concern of EU businesses relates to travel restrictions in and out of Macau, especially for foreign entrepreneurs and residents. This is the main issue as EU companies in Macau also do business in mainland China and Hong Kong.”

Apart from the current worldwide health crisis, EU companies in the SAR have also reported some difficulties when it comes to finding qualified employees that suit their needs.

Mr Gnocchi pointed out that further economic diversification– in line with the Macau SAR government’s economic development strategy – could also benefit EU businesses that are outside of the gaming and related industries.

“I would also like to see intensified links in the academic field. We have had great success in the past with our Jean Monnet Chair and our EU Academic Programme at the University of Macau. We hope to continue strengthening these ties,” the EU representative added.

The EU is looking to extend existing successful exchange and cooperation programmes such as the Macau-EU Cooperation Programme in the Legal Field held between 2016 and 2019 and a longstanding collaboration on conference interpretation which started in 2006.

“We are interested in strengthening our ties regarding cultural activities and human rights. Macau has strong historical ties to Europe and we want to strengthen our cultural and academic ties. Similarly, we would like to strengthen our cooperation on human rights-related issues such as human trafficking and anti-discrimination,” Gnocchi added.

However, since first taking office in September of this year – in replacement of Carmen Cano – the new EU envoy has not yet been able to hold an in-person meeting Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng due to travel restrictions, with Hong Kong arrival still required to complete a 14-day medical observation upon entry.

“We have been communicating but I do not expect to be able to meet with Macau officials until the border reopens […] Once the restrictions are lifted, I look forward to visiting Macau and meet government officials, the business community, as well as academics and civil society at large,” Gnocchi added.