Article 136 of the Basic Law states that the Macao SAR may, on its own, using the name "Macao, China", maintain and develop relations and conclude and implement agreements with foreign states and regions and relevant international organizations in the appropriate fields, including the economic, trade, financial and monetary, shipping, communications, tourism, cultural, science and technology,
and sports fields. In addition, as per relevant provisions of the Basic Law and with the assistance and authorization of the Central People's Government, the Macao SAR may, on its own, conduct negotiations and conclude bilateral agreements in the areas of air services, legal cooperation, investment protection, exemptions of visas and others.
Bilateral agreements in force in the Macao SAR include seven categories, such as legal and judicial cooperation, trade, investment protection and technical cooperation, promotion, diplomatic and consular relations, taxation and exemption of visas.