As the 2026 Hainan Expo concludes today, a parallel digital economy continues buzzing into the night. While exhibition halls empty at sunset, nearby live-stream studios maintain relentless momentum, connecting Asian products to global buyers through screens.
CGTN reporter Olivia He observed hosts working 10-hour nocturnal shifts this week, showcasing everything from Hainan tropical fruits to smart appliances. "This year's night sales volume doubled last year's figures," revealed one studio manager, citing 24/7 logistics support from the expo's free trade port infrastructure.
The phenomenon highlights China's evolving consumption patterns, with cross-border e-commerce transactions reaching $218 billion in Q1 2026 according to customs data. International buyers particularly favor premium tea varieties and eco-friendly tech accessories, with 63% of orders shipped to APEC member regions.
As dawn breaks over the emptied convention center, these digital storefronts persist – testament to Asia's unstoppable commercial innovation. The expo may end, but its economic ripples continue shaping global trade networks.
Reference(s):
Closing day special: The e-commerce night shift beyond the Expo
cgtn.com








