Macao: Rising star of Asia

In our last episode of introductions to China's provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities, we take a look at Macao.

Macao lies on the south coast of China, bordering Guangdong Province, and the Pearl River Delta. It is made up of a small peninsula and the islands of Taipa and Coloane. Densely populated, 560 thousand people share just 27.3 square kilometers of land. The official languages are Chinese and Portuguese.

Macao was occupied by the Portuguese in the 16th century, becoming the first European settlement in the Far East. In April 1987, China and Portugal signed an agreement to return Macao to China. It became a Special Administrative Region on December the 20th, 1999. Under the "One country, Two systems" policy, Macao will enjoy a high degree of autonomy in all matters except foreign and defense affairs.

Chui Sai On was elected Macao's third-term Chief Executive in June. He will begin his five-year term on December 19th this year when Ho Hau Wah's second consecutive term ends.

Although Macao's economy is relatively small, it's growing fast thanks to open market policies. It's one of two international freeports in China. Key to its economy is the world-famous gaming industry. But tourism, textiles and clothing are contributing to the region's economic development.