#Sands China #Macao #SME support #Supplier Excellence

Sands China Commemorates a Decade of Local SME Support

On December 9, 2025, Sands China proudly celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Local Small, Medium and Micro Suppliers Support Programme at The Londoner Macao. The event not only highlighted a decade of commitment to empowering local SMEs but also featured the prestigious Sands Supplier Excellence Awards, recognizing remarkable contributions from suppliers who have excelled in various categories.

A Milestone in SME Support

Sands China initiated its Local SME Suppliers Support Programme in 2015 in collaboration with the Macao Chamber of Commerce. This program was designed as the first of its kind in Macao, focusing on enhancing the capabilities and opportunities for small and medium enterprises. It particularly targeted local suppliers, companies manufacturing 'Made in Macao' products, and young entrepreneurs in the region.

Grant Chum, the CEO of Sands China Ltd., emphasized the pivotal role of SMEs in sustaining Macao's economy, urging the importance of long-term partnerships. The event's central theme revolved around celebrating collaborative growth between Sands China and the local business community. "SMEs are a vital pillar of Macao's economy," Chum stated, reinforcing Sands China’s dedication to prioritizing local procurement and support strategies.

Celebrating Excellence

During the ceremony, Sands China acknowledged the efforts of its suppliers with the Sands Supplier Excellence Awards. This year, seven awards were presented to suppliers across various categories, including Corporate Culture, Innovation, Cost Management, Quality Management, Project Management, Service Excellence, and Small/Medium Enterprise. The recipient companies represented a spectrum of industries, showcasing the diverse contributions of Macao’s business landscape.

The significance of recognizing these suppliers, many of whom have partnered with Sands China for over 20 years, was highlighted by Dr. Wilfred Wong, the executive vice chairman of Sands China Ltd., during his remarks. The certificates of appreciation were awarded to 40 SME partners, symbolizing the long-lasting relationships forged over the years.

Successes and Future Aspirations

Over the past ten years, this support program has successfully procured MOP 119.4 billion worth of goods and services, with 83 percent sourced from local suppliers. The initiative has fostered collaborative growth, which is crucial not just for the suppliers but for the broader economic landscape of Macao.

One of the program's key aspects has been the Financial Investment and Training (F.I.T.) programme launched in 2017, which offers financial support, matching services, and training opportunities to local SMEs. These initiatives reflect Sands China’s unwavering commitment to nurturing small businesses and fostering their growth through comprehensive development strategies.

Ma Chi Ngai, the president of the Macao Chamber of Commerce, affirmed the importance of this partnership, citing it as a new chapter in Macao’s tourist-driven economy. He laid out plans for continued collaboration, aiming to facilitate digital transformation, brand upgrades, and international market expansion for local SMEs, seizing opportunities for sustainable development.

Networking for Future Growth

Following the awards presentation, attendees participated in a cocktail and business networking session. This platform enabled local enterprises to engage directly with various departments of Sands China, including the procurement and supply chain teams. Such sessions have proven instrumental over the years in establishing meaningful connections that lead to beneficial partnerships for both parties.

As Sands China moves forward, its commitment to local procurement and supplier support remains a cornerstone of its corporate social responsibility efforts. The company's initiatives not only enhance the capabilities of local SMEs but also contribute significantly to Macao’s broader aim of becoming a world-class tourism and leisure hub.

In summary, the 10th anniversary of the Local Small, Medium and Micro Suppliers Support Programme is a testament to the impact of partnerships between large enterprises and local businesses. With continued support and innovative measures in place, Sands China looks forward to fostering more success stories within Macao’s vibrant SME sector.

Conclusion

The celebration at The Londoner Macao marked a significant milestone in a fruitful decade of collaboration, innovation, and support for local suppliers. Sands China’s ongoing commitment ensures that the future for Macao’s SMEs is brimming with potential, paving the way for a diverse and resilient economy.