Macao is pick of the crop for successful global event
More than 1,200 leaders convened in the dynamic city of Macao at the 43rd INC World Nut & Dried Fruit Congress, proving once again that it’s a destination ripe for collaboration
Across three days in May, more than 60 world-class speakers took to the stage in Macao to share the latest data on crops, economic outlooks and emerging trends with 1,200+ senior professionals in the nut and dried fruit industry. With expert-led round tables and inspiring keynote speakers, the INC Congress programme was filled with market insights, strategic discussions and lively evening events.
The main event was hosted at the Galaxy International Convention Center, a landmark of modern hospitality with dazzling East-meets-West architecture set in the heart of this vibrant entertainment capital.
Ahead of the congress, the 2026 INC China Immersive Industry Experience provided an opportunity for delegates to gain firsthand insights into China’s rapidly evolving nut and snack industry. Participants experienced immersive interactions with leading companies recognised for their pioneering approaches to product development, supply chain efficiency and consumer engagement, exploring integrated advanced technologies, sustainability practices and market-driven strategies to maintain leadership in a competitive global landscape.
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“I think the real highlight of this event was the profile of the guests,” says Olinto Oliveira, General Manager of MCI Macao and Hong Kong. “Most are C-suite or very senior-level executives.
“MCI is a global PCO that takes care of the INC account; we take the event around the world, leveraging our local networks. We felt Macao was a great spot not only because of the logistical ease but the integrated resorts and venues available to host were of the calibre needed.
“IPIM helped a lot with a subsidy, the incentive programmes and ensured it all ran smoothly. The event this year was very flexible and they worked with us very closely.”
For any international event with large delegate numbers, smooth and efficient travel arrangements really matter. For delegates arriving in Macao, access is straightforward via Hong Kong International Airport and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.
“From an immigration standpoint, it was very smooth,” says Oliviera. “From a Hong Kong into Macao perspective, it was great. When we look at the Greater Bay Area as a whole now, that entire ecosystem, it's made it a lot easier.”
Some guests landing in Hong Kong took the ferry to Macao while the majority took the bus. Delegates coming from meetings in Mainland China and the Greater Bay Area were also able to take private cars.
“Macao offers easy access from most countries,” says Goretti Guasch, INC Executive Director. “Logistically it proved to be very convenient for international congress delegates.
“Macao is very well prepared to host congresses,” she continues. “It has very large capacity accommodation, restaurants and incredible resorts. We were very happy to be at the Galaxy International Resort, which allowed our members easy and convenient access to the convention centre. The logistics are very easy and the venues are just fantastic.”
As a gateway city, Macao attracts delegates from Mainland China as well as providing easily accessible tours and experiences for international delegates. “This is actually the first congress with this many Chinese participants,” said Goretti. 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 is also an attractive destination for visitors, offering a special blend of historic Portuguese charm, bustling casinos, traditional temples, cobblestone streets and award-winning cuisine.