22 March 2024

The Executive Council has concluded its discussion on the draft administrative regulation titled "Regime for the Installation and Operation of Data Centers."

In response to the growing demand for data center services and the rapid advancement of information and communication technologies, the Government of the Macau Special Administrative Region has established this administrative regulation. Its purpose is to enhance the existing framework governing data center services, thereby facilitating the construction and development of a digital Macao.

According to the administrative regulation, the installation and operation of data centers will require prior authorization from the Chief Executive. Entities holding this authorization must ensure a stable and secure environment within the data centers, guaranteeing the safety of the equipment's physical locations. By aligning with the development of Macao's smart city initiatives and the sustainable growth of the telecommunications sector, this administrative regulation creates conditions conducive to attracting new investors. Under this regulation, the installation and operation of data centers, which was previously included under the installation and operation license for public fixed telecommunications networks in which was issued through public tender, will no longer be necessary. Instead, qualified entities will be able to install and operate data centers by obtaining the appropriate authorization. These authorized entities will then be able to provide other companies with a suitable data center environment.

The administrative regulation shall enter into force on 1 April 2024.