On December 18, 2025, the Hainan Free Trade Port will roll out its special customs operations, marking a milestone in its ambition to cement tourism as a pillar industry. Today, the province is pivoting beyond policy incentives, embracing integrated models like Sports+ and AI+ to fuel a new phase of high-quality development.
For young global citizens and digital nomads, Hainan's Sports+ model means world-class athletic events set against tropical beaches—from international beach volleyball tournaments to open-water swims. These experiences pack adrenaline, live music, and local culture into a single immersive package.
Meanwhile, the AI+ initiative leverages artificial intelligence for personalized travel: smart itineraries powered by predictive analytics, AR-guided heritage tours, and AI-driven service bots streamlining check-ins at eco-friendly resorts. Early pilots show notable boosts in guest satisfaction and longer average stays.
By marrying sports, tech, and sustainable practices, Hainan is not only enhancing traveler experiences but also supporting local entrepreneurs in hospitality, fitness, and digital services. As the Free Trade Port's customs engines fire up later this month, the island is poised for a surge in global visitor numbers, setting a new standard for tourism growth in 2026 and beyond.
Whether you're a business entrepreneur eyeing new markets, a thought leader exploring sustainable models, or a traveler craving immersive adventures, Hainan's latest moves offer fresh perspectives on how tourism can drive economic and cultural progress.
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Hainan launches new initiatives to drive high-quality tourism growth
cgtn.com
