In the 18th and early 19th centuries Taipa consisted of two hilly islands and a protected harbour which provided an anchorage for clipper ships and Indiamen engaged in trade with China. Smaller vessels would transship the cargoes of muslin, manufactured goods and opium up the Pearl River to Canton and return with tea, silk, and porcelain for export around the world. Taipa is now once again an international gateway with the opening of the Macau International Airport.
