Macao should develop its own unique industries with a focus on small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in order to build its own brands in the global market. This is the advice of Premier Wen Jiabao during a visit to Macao’s House of Apparel Technology under the Productivity and Technology Transfer Centre this morning. According to the Premier, the growth of the creative industry led by SMEs is closely linked with Macao’s ambition of becoming a world travel and leisure hub. Mr Wen, accompanied by the Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Wang Guangya, and Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Macao, Mr Bai Zhijian, was shown around the House of Apparel Technology, getting a first hand look at the latest development in Macao’s clothing industry. He was also presented with a scarf made by the apprentices there. Afterwards the Premier visited the Northern District Community Services Centre of the Workers’ Union, where he chatted with retirees and youngsters. He was briefed on the retirement benefits offered by the Macao Government and was told by the young people that high housing prices made it hard for them to climb on the property ladder. In response, the Premier said the government had the responsibility of helping low income families with their housing needs.
