Hengqin New Area is a special economic zone adjacent to glitzy casino hub Macao. A new central business district, Shizimen, is under development, along with two major industrial parks, both primarily focused on producing traditional Chinese medicine. Hengqin New Area is mostly intended to invigorate the Chinese mainland’s trade and cooperation with Macao.

The free-trade zone occupies Hengqin island, which is also set to become one of southern China’s major transport hubs: a 21-hectare port will link subway lines of both Macao and Zhuhai. Residents of Macao and Hong Kong may enter and exit the island through the checkpoint at Lotus Bridge, which connects with Macao.

One of the new area’s goals is to diversify Macao’s economy, which is currently heavily focused on gaming. The area already has a new branch of the University of Macau, with more family-friendly theme parks and hotels in the pipeline.

Hengqin Chimelong International Ocean Tourist Resort

This massive area was developed for family-friendly holidays. Its main draws are the Ocean Kingdom theme park, a circus theatre and the high-end Hengqin Bay Hotel.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Industrial Park

A joint project between Guangdong province and Macao, this industrial park houses dozens of companies producing traditional Chinese medicine supplements, with a focus on science-based research.

Hengqin MCC Headquarters Complex

Currently under construction, this development includes two high-rise office towers and a shopping complex with a roof resembling lotus leaves.

Shizimen CBD Hengqin section

This new business area faces Macao and has been designated for finance and trade. Conventions and expos are mainly held here.

A ferry service travels from Hong Kong International Airport’s Sky Pier to Macao and Zhuhai Jiuzhou

Hero image: VCG