Why the world’s nut industry picked Macao to host its congress

If you had been among the delegates at the 43rd INC World Nut & Dried Fruit Congress, you would have left with more than a pocketful of industry intelligence. You might have discovered that tree nuts like almonds or pistachios may help curb sugar cravings, that hazelnuts remain a confectionery favourite, and that China, India, and the Middle East now lead the world as the largest markets for nuts and dried fruits.

Yet, a closer look at the event design would reveal that such industry insights were not the only memorable takeaways for attendees. Hosted at the Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) in Macao, the congress brought together 1,300+ industry leaders from 60+ countries / regions for three days of market insights, networking and innovation. But it was Macao's unique blend of accessibility, integrated resorts and destination experiences that helped elevate this edition to become one of the congresses’ most successful editions to date.

Gateway to China, plus eye-opening factory visits

For an industry that’s increasingly making its mark in Asia, Macao proved a strategic choice. Positioned at the doorstep of mainland China – one of the world's largest consumers and importers of nuts – the destination also ranks as one of the safest cities in the world and boasts a superior, business-friendly regulatory environment. These advantages, combined with seamless access for both Chinese and international delegates, making Macao an ideal destination for hosting international events.

“Macao was a natural choice, acting as a gateway to mainland China, one of the world's largest consumers and importers of nuts,” said Olinto Oliveira, GM of MCI Macao and Hong Kong, the agency behind the event’s delivery. “The city’s accessibility, all-in-one integrated resorts, state-of-the-art venues and technological support also perfectly aligned with the requirements of our event.”

Of the 1,300+ attendees, some 200 hailed from mainland China, making it one of the congress’s most significant contingents. “This is actually the first congress with this many Chinese participants,” noted International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC) Executive Director Goretti Guasch. Macao’s border advantage also enabled INC to offer pre-congress visits to factories and processing hubs in mainland China and the port of Hong Kong. “We received tremendous support – not just in delegate turnout, but in facilitating these visits and sponsorships.” 

Macao’s adjacency to Hong Kong proved equally valuable. Many delegates, including Guasch herself, flew into Hong Kong International Airport and travelled seamlessly to Macao via private transfer or bus across the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB). Others chose to spend a few days in Hong Kong before continuing to Macao by high-speed ferry. “Logistically, Macao proved to be very convenient for international congress delegates. Despite the high volume of attendees, transfer logistics proved smooth and seamless." adds Guasch. 

Fruitful networking beyond the conference hall

Macao's growing appeal as a bleisure destination was likewise on full display throughout the congress. Before the congress officially opened, INC welcomed delegates to a golf tournament at the Macao International Golf Club, creating an informal setting for bonding, networking and relationship-building among attendees from across the globe.

The networking continued beyond the conference floor, with INC making full use of Macao's world-class attractions and event venues. A welcome reception at Galaxy Macau's Grand Resort Deck set the tone, where Macanese-inspired cocktails featuring local ingredients such as sardines and pork jerky proved to be a talking point. Another night, delegates also enjoyed dinner and breathtaking views of the city’s skyline at Macao Tower.

Between keynote sessions and roundtable discussions, delegates enjoyed Chinese calligraphy demonstrations, sampled dragon-beard candy tastings and tried their hand at mahjong. Guided tours through downtown Macao and landmark sites such as the Ruins of St. Paul's and A-Ma Temple offered further insight into the city's blend of Portuguese and Chinese heritage. Together, these experiences gave delegates meaningful opportunities to break out of their shell, and connect with the destination as well as one another.

High-impact hospitality under one roof

Macao’s standard of hospitality remains integral to the delegate experience. Accommodation, convention facilities, exhibitions, dining and entertainment were all located within the same integrated resort precinct, allowing delegates to move effortlessly between meetings and networking events.

“Macao’s five-star hospitality and attention to detail stood out. The integrated resorts provided exceptional services tailored to senior executives, with onsite teams always ready to accommodate ad hoc requests,” said Oliveira. “Whether it was seamless event execution or personalised touches in accommodations, the resorts rose to the occasion, ensuring an unparalleled level of comfort and professionalism.

Shelling out support for MICE planners

Government backing, particularly from the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute of the Macao SAR (IPIM), was another key factor in INC and MCI's decision to host the event in the city.

IPIM streamlined coordination with government agencies and connected the team with local cultural and entertainment partners. “IPIM offered invaluable tips and insights, particularly when it came to hosting international travellers,” Oliveira adds. “The seamless assistance we received across the bidding phase, planning, and execution significantly enhanced the experience for our international delegates all over the world, solidifying this as one of our most successful editions to date.”

Discover an array of unique experiences in Macao to elevate your next conference. Visit https://www.mice.gov.mo/en/index.aspx

This article is brought to you by the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute of the Macao SAR (IPIM).