Duty-free sales in the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) soared 44.8% year-on-year in January 2026, driven by streamlined customs operations introduced to boost economic activity. According to Haikou Customs, sales reached 4.53 billion yuan ($653 million), with 560,000 shoppers purchasing 3.367 million items—a 21% increase in visitors and 14% rise in transactions compared to January 2025.
The surge follows the implementation of island-wide special customs measures, including bonded warehouse integration with retail locations and automated document review systems. These reforms ensure faster restocking of popular products and reduced processing times, critical for maintaining Hainan’s appeal as a global shopping hub.
Haikou Customs has also launched a cross-agency rapid-response mechanism to combat smuggling while enhancing the shopping experience. Analysts say these efforts align with Hainan’s broader goal to become a fully operational free trade port by 2026, attracting overseas investors and reinforcing its role in China’s economic opening.
