Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang has called for accelerated efforts to transform Hainan Province into a global economic gateway during a two-day inspection of the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP). The visit, conducted on Monday and Tuesday, underscores Beijing's strategic focus on advancing high-level opening-up policies through the island’s development.
As a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Ding emphasized the need to prioritize the FTP’s "independent customs operation" set to launch this year. He visited critical infrastructure sites, including airport facilities and harbor ports, to assess preparations aimed at streamlining cross-border trade and governance efficiency.
Hainan’s duty-free shopping policies—a cornerstone of its international tourism appeal—were also highlighted as key to building a world-class consumption hub. Ding urged the province to leverage its unique resources to cultivate modern industries and "new quality productive forces," signaling opportunities in sectors like green technology and digital innovation.
Additional focus areas included promoting rural education equity and expanding Hainan’s fledgling commercial spaceflight sector. Analysts note these initiatives align with broader goals to balance regional growth and technological self-reliance amid shifting global trade dynamics.
With its tropical charm and ambitious reforms, Hainan’s FTP is poised to become a litmus test for China’s economic resilience and integration into international markets.
