Situated at the southern tip of the Chinese mainland, the Hainan Free Trade Port is redefining what a beach getaway can look like. With its 'tourism-plus' strategy, the island province is extending the visitor experience beyond sun and sand, weaving in culture, sports and wellness under a package of preferential tax policies and special customs operations.
Preferential Tax Perks
Since rolling out island-wide special customs operations this year, Hainan has attracted a wave of leisure and business travelers. Reduced tariffs and tax breaks on goods like luxury watch imports and international cuisine ingredients are prompting guests to shop and dine longer—transforming everyday tourism into a high-spend ecosystem.
Culture, Sport and Wellness: Beyond the Beach
Through targeted events—from film festivals in Sanya to beachfront yoga retreats in Haikou—Hainan is encouraging tourists to stay multiple nights and explore new activities. "By integrating sports marathons, cultural fairs and wellness programs, we're seeing visitors extend their stays and increase on-island spending," says Zhou Tao, Managing Director of the Hotels & Hospitality Group at JLL Greater China.
Looking Ahead
As 2025 draws to a close, Hainan's tourism-plus model is setting a blueprint for other emerging markets in the Asia-Pacific region. For young global citizens and digital nomads seeking immersive travel experiences, the Free Trade Port's mix of low-tax shopping and vibrant local events makes it a playground for both adventure and luxury.
Reference(s):
Hainan's 'tourism plus' strategy unlocks new spending scenarios
cgtn.com
