Macao Flag

The green field represents Macao’s lush terrain and its role as a vibrant trade and tourist hub. The white lotus is the city’s floral emblem and symbolizes purity and renewal; its three main petals represent the Macao Peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane. Below, the stylized bridge and water signal Macao’s heritage as a port city. The arc of five golden stars echoes the national flag of China, emphasizing Macao’s status as a Special Administrative Region under the “one country, two systems” principle.

Introduced on 20 December 1999 when sovereignty transferred from Portugal to China, the regional flag was designed and approved earlier in 1993 by China’s National People’s Congress. Prior to handover, Macao flew the Portuguese flag officially. Anonymous design proposals emphasized lotus, bridges, and stars to meld civic symbolism with national affiliation.

The flag’s design features a peacock‑green field (Pantone‑style defined) with a symmetrical white lotus sitting atop stylized white water and bridge outlines. Above it, five golden stars are arranged in an arch: one large center star and two smaller on either side. The flag ratio is 2:3. No additional emblems or inscriptions appear, ensuring clarity and recognition.

Under Macao’s Basic Law, the regional flag flies alongside the national flag of China, which takes precedence. The Macao flag may not replace the national flag and should never appear above it. Display is required on government buildings, during regional holidays, and in diplomatic settings. Worn flags must be replaced or properly retired with dignity.