Overview of Macao

Profile

After 1999 handover to China, Macao maintains high autonomy under "One Country, Two Systems," independently operating currency, legal system, and taxation. In this tiny territory of approximately 33 square kilometers, historic buildings coexist with skyscraper casino resorts, receiving tens of millions of tourists annually. Characterized by Portuguese-Chinese cultural fusion in townscape and food culture, boasting world's highest life expectancy and social welfare.

Official name: Macao Special Administrative Region of the People''s Republic of China
Common name: Macao
Numeric code: 446
Alpha-3 code: MAC
Alpha-2 code: MO
Population: About 680,000 (2024)
Population density: About 21,800
Primary languages: Chinese (Cantonese), Portuguese, Mandarin, English
Major religions: Chinese traditional religions, Buddhism, Christianity (mainly Catholic)
National anthem: March of the Volunteers
Calling code: +853
Internet TLD: .mo

History

Developed as Portugal''s Far East hub from 16th century, handed over to China in 1999.

Since Portuguese gained residence rights in 1557, Macao thrived as Asian trade center for long periods. Became Portugal''s de facto colony in late 19th century, with handover negotiations intensifying after mid-20th century Carnation Revolution. Through 1987 Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration, handed over to China on December 20, 1999, guaranteeing 50 years of high autonomy. Post-handover saw rapid growth through casino industry liberalization and CEPA economic cooperation with mainland China, dramatically improving GDP and living standards.

Geography & climate

Mixed terrain of low hills and flatlands comprising peninsula jutting into Pearl River Delta south bank and reclaimed land, plus Taipa and Coloane islands

Subtropical monsoon climate (Temperate summer rain, Cwa)

Area: Asia / 33.3 km²
Capital: Macao (NAPE District)
Largest city: Macao
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: People''s Republic of China

Natural resources

Offshore fishery resources, Sea sand (for reclamation), Tourism resources, Cultural heritage, Renewable energy (solar, tidal), Mangrove wetlands, Tropical trees, Coastal ecosystems, Pearl River basin freshwater, Bay landscapes

Politics

Government: High autonomy as China''s Special Administrative Region (Chief Executive system)

Economy

Currency: Macanese Pataca (MOP)

GDP (nominal): About 27 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): About 65 billion International dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Chinese (Cantonese), Portuguese, Mandarin, English

Time zone: China Standard Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Han Chinese (Cantonese), Hakka, Macanese (Portuguese-mixed), Portuguese, Filipino, Indonesian, Other European

Life expectancy

85.4

Literacy rate

96.8

National sports

Football, Basketball, Dragon boat, Martial arts Tai Chi, Badminton, Table tennis, Motorsports, Running