The city known as the Las Vegas of Asia, Macau, attracted 27 million tourists in 2007, surpassing Hong Kong for the first time.
The number of casinos grew from 11 to 29 between 2003 and 2007 and gaming taxes now account for 75 percent of Macau's public revenue.
GDP is forecast to grow by 13 percent in 2008 on the back of 27 percent growth in 2007.
In an effort to ensure sustained and balanced growth, authorities recently imposed a freeze on the issuing of new casino licenses but there is sufficient development underway to ensure this will not have a material impact on the gaming industry in the short term.
While Macau's economic performance is closely tied to the gaming industry, the influx of tourists from all parts of the world has created demand for a wide range of food and beverages.
In particular, premium food products are in demand by five-star hotels as they introduce more fine dining outlets in an effort to differentiate their offering.
However, development of the local supply chain lags behind the boom of the hospitability industry.
Consistency of supply and cool chain management continue to be a challenge.
The opportunity has not been overlooked by Hong Kong food distribution companies as they move to establish their own logistic branches in Macau.
This has served to further the interests of New Zealand food and beverage companies in the region with New Zealand beef, seafood, dairy products and wine now available in Macau.
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