DILI, 24 November 2025 (TATOLI) – China’s Hainan Free Trade Port is set to launch island-wide special customs operations on 18 December, aiming to become a key gateway for trade with the Global South.
The initiative would transform the Hainan’s Free Trade Port (FTP) into a major entry point for products from the Global South, with a focus on ASEAN countries.
The announcement came during a briefing for international media in Haikou on 24 November, organized by the China International Press Communication Center, the Information Office of Hainan Province, and the Foreign Affairs Office of Hainan Province.
Wang Bin, Spokesperson of the Hainan CPC Provincial Committee, said: “In the past five years, the development of the Hainan Free Trade Port has witnessed steady progress and growing momentum. Opening up has continued to expand, our industrial system has become increasingly optimized, our business environment has continued to improve, and our residents have gained a stronger sense of fulfillment.”
He added that Hainan is strategically positioned as “three pilot zones and one center,” achieving “one landmark leap, four significant breakthroughs, and five notable outcomes.”
Wang said Hainan is introducing a special customs supervision model: “freer access at the first line, regulated access at the second line, and free flow within the island,” with zero tariffs on most imports and low corporate and high-end talent taxes.
“These policies can reduce operating costs for enterprises from countries and regions in the Global South by nearly 20%,” he stressed.
Hainan is also developing a modern industrial system covering tropical agriculture, tourism, healthcare, and the digital economy.
Wang highlighted opportunities for cooperation in clean energy, ecological protection, and sustainable tourism, and noted trade benefits under the RCEP framework.
Preparations for island-wide operations are largely complete, including infrastructure, IT systems, and policy frameworks.
Li Zhiping, Deputy Director-General of Hainan’s Department of Commerce, said the Free Trade Port offers three advantages: freer trade, overlapping preferential policies, and a base for Chinese enterprises to access international markets.
Hainan’s outward investment has surged this year, with nearly 300 new enterprises registered and US$3.17bn in paid-up investment, reflecting rapid growth and stronger ties with the Global South.
Journalist: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de Assis Belo
