Macao has maintained steady economic growth five years after its returning to China.

Figures show Macao's GDP last year reached 63.3 billion Macao dollars or 8.2 billion US dollars. Its GDP in 2004 has doubled compared with last year.

Analysts say Macao's economic growth benefits from the central government's support, especially after the signing of Mainland and Macao Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement or CEPA at the beginning of this year.

Under the CEPA, 272 Macao products are exempted from import customs, which help promote the development of manufacturing and tourism industries.

In addition, the liberalization of individual visa procedures has greatly boosted tourism in the city.

(CRI.com December 8, 2004)