China to build Macau's neighbour district Hengqin into international tourism island

China aims to develop the Hengqin District in southern Guangdong Province into an international tourism island in its efforts to further integrate the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area.

The State Council has approved, in principle, the proposal raised for such a transformation, according to a statement released Monday on its website.

Hengqin, located on an island, is next door to Macau. The 106.46-square-km region is expected to become a global tourism destination with a modern industrial system, green ecosystem and smart services.

The development of Hengqin will promote the moderate economic diversification of Macau and become a demonstration zone for the deep integration of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau, the statement said.

A free trade pilot zone will also be promoted in the region, according to the statement.

In February 2019, Chinese authorities unveiled the outline development plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area, aiming to develop the city cluster into a quality living circle for living, working, health care and traveling.