Rise and Fall of Pier No. 16

The history-laden Interior Harbor is lined by over 30 piers. The Pier No. 16, located along the midway of the line of piers, has been the most well-known of all. It used to be the main pier where opium stocks were unloaded for distribution in the opium trade of Macao and for the export of Chinese “coolies” (laborers) to work in foreign countries. During the 1930s, an exclusive concession for gaming operation in Macao was granted to “Tai Heng” Company, headed by Fu Tak Iong and Kou Ho Neng. The Company operated the steamship “Tai Loy”, plying between Macao, China and Hong Kong to pick up customers for gambling in Macao. Upon arrival, the vessel berthed at Pier No. 16. When “Society of Traveling and Entertainment of Macau Limited” was granted exclusive concession for gaming operation in Macao in the 1960s, it took over the management of Pier No. 16 and endeavored great efforts to develop the shipping industry. This had indeed marked a new era for the Interior Harbor. Nevertheless, the rapid development of the Exterior Port of Macao during late 20th century undermined the importance of the Interior Harbor. By today, the thriving scenes of Interior Harbor have become part of its glamorous past.