In November 2025, Hainan’s customs-free policy is entering a new phase, transforming the tropical island into a global testbed for symbiotic growth. By removing tariffs on key imports and streamlining cross-border logistics, the province has created new pathways for tourists, entrepreneurs, and environmental initiatives to flourish side by side.
Since launching its duty-free scheme earlier this year, Hainan has seen:
- A 40 percent increase in duty-free retail sales, topping 50 billion yuan;
- Over 100 million cross-border e-commerce transactions connecting Hainan with ASEAN and G20 markets;
- More than 200 startups from the Chinese mainland and abroad setting up in Sanya and Haikou.
Tourists are flocking to duty-free outlets, boutique eco-lodges, and digital nomad hubs. Local suppliers of tropical fruits, marine products, and handicrafts are teaming up with overseas brands to meet rising demand. Meanwhile, green initiatives—like mangrove restoration and solar-powered logistics—are weaving sustainability into every step of the supply chain.
“We’re witnessing a new landscape of symbiosis,” says a Hainan-based entrepreneur in the e-commerce sector. “Our growth is tied to environmental stewardship and international collaboration. That synergy is what sets Hainan apart.”
Looking ahead, officials plan to expand zero-tariff zones, pilot blockchain-based customs clearance, and host global innovation festivals. For young travellers, thought leaders, and tech enthusiasts, Hainan offers a blueprint for how customs-free policies can power economic, social, and environmental harmony.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
