The closer trading and economic relationship across the Taiwan Strait will bring new opportunities for Macao, the Secretary for Economy and Finance, Mr Francis Tam Pak Yuen, said today.

Asked by reporters on what he felt about the weekend chartered flights between the Mainland and Taiwan, Mr Tam said increased trade and better relations across the strait would benefit Macao, which plays the role of a regional trading platform.

As regards to the adjustment of the facilitated individual travel (FIT) scheme by the Mainland, Mr Tam said that this would benefit Macao.

Given the rapid economic performance in recent years this was the appropriate time to review Macao’s economic policies and strategies, he said.

Mr Tam was speaking to reporters at the airport before he left to attend the 2008 China Cross-Straits Technology and Projects Fair, to be opened in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, tomorrow.

More than 60 representatives from Macao’s business sector will also attend the event.