"Zhongshan's business environment has been getting better and better in recent two years. We are full of confidence in the future of this city." Owners of many Macao-funded enterprises are more confident in investing in Zhongshan.

Statistics show that there are some 1,190 Macao-funded enterprises in Zhongshan, mainly engaged in such sectors as manufacturing, wholesale and retail, leasing and business services, scientific research and technical services, etc.

Born in Macao, Simon Kuong is a typical "second-generation factory owner". He now runs Tonvex, a garment company in Zhongshan's Shaxi Town. The Tonvex brand was co-founded by Simon Kuong's father and his partners.

"The longer I stay in Zhongshan the more I love this city. Now I find myself spending less time in Macao. I believe Zhongshan can be the birthplace of outstanding enterprises," said Simon Kuong.

A workshop of Tonvex. (File photo/Zhongshan Daily)

In Tonvex's workshops, rows of advanced intelligent hanger systems are constantly delivering cloth pieces to workers. "We renew our equipment every one or two years, with an investment of about 10 million yuan, aiming to reduce costs and increase efficiency," said Kuong, adding that about 70% of the company's investment is put in technical equipment.

Early in 2023, Tonvex had become the first garment enterprise in Zhongshan with "digital intelligent model workshops", and was rated as a model of transformation and upgrading of the garment industry in Guangdong.

Fong Ka-heng, also born in Macao, speaks highly of Zhongshan's business environment as well. He is now the deputy general manager of the Panda Sport company in Xiaolan Town.

Fong Ka-heng introduces Panda Sport's clothing products. (Photo/Yu Zhaoyu)

"Panda Sport has been rooted in Zhongshan. Based on the local baseball industry and culture, we aim to make Zhongshan a difference in the sports field through games and international exchange activities," added Fong.