Cheng Wai Tong, acting director of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), stated on August 18th that the event attracted a cumulative 25,000 visitors in its first two days, August 16th and 17th, far exceeding initial expectations. The market was temporarily closed on August 17th due to weather conditions, and a decision on whether to extend the event will be made later.
Cheng noted that extending the event requires consideration of multiple factors, including coordination with co-organizer the Association of Returned Overseas Chinese Macau, as well as budget and exhibitor willingness. The market is primarily a test project to assess the feasibility of outdoor events and the effective use of the venue. Initial observations suggest the area is suitable for nighttime events and that residents’ reaction to noise has been minimal. Future plans include exploring ways to further optimize the use of the pedestrian space.
The MGTO also plans to enhance promotion for about 20 hotels in the ZAPE area that are not among the six major integrated resort enterprises. Starting in the fourth quarter, the office will collaborate with online travel agencies to provide priority listing on their platforms. Additionally, the MGTO is working with various payment platforms to offer shopping discounts for businesses in the area, specifically targeting tourists to support tourism promotion strategies.
The market features six food trucks and 33 stalls, offering a range of local and Southeast Asian food, as well as cultural and creative products. The event also includes entertainment options like photo booths and claw machines. Visitors who spend MOP100 ($12.44) or more can get one free chance to play the claw machine.
