Haikou sets its sights on becoming a strategic hub linking China and ASEAN
With ASEAN rapidly emerging as one of the most dynamic and high-potential regions in the world, Hainan is taking decisive steps to deepen regional cooperation, placing ASEAN at the core of its strategic development.
Two major events held in Haikou in October, the 11th World Free Zones Organization (WFZO) Annual Conference and the 2025 Haikou–ASEAN Consulates General Dialogue, underscored the province’s ambition to strengthen its role as a bridge between China and Southeast Asia.
A Clear Strategic Priority: ASEAN at the Core
At the WFZO Conference, Guo Da, Executive Dean of the Hainan Free Trade Port Research Center, emphasized that deepening regional cooperation with ASEAN will be the foremost priority for the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) over the next decade. This focus is rooted in three strategic advantages:
ASEAN’s Economic Vitality – The region is now one of the world’s fastest-growing and most vibrant markets.
Maturing Institutional Frameworks – With the anticipated signing of the upgraded China–ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 protocol by year’s end, deeper collaboration will have solid institutional backing.
Hainan’s Geographic Advantage – Situated close to the center of the ASEAN region, Hainan enjoys natural proximity to key Southeast Asian economies.
“Our aim is to become a comprehensive hub in the China–ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Guo said. “Hainan is uniquely positioned to integrate into regional economic cycles and serve as an open gateway to both the Pacific and Indian Oceans.”
Policy Momentum: Customs Closure and Zero-Tariff Vision
The strategic vision is being matched with bold policy steps. On December 18, Hainan FTP will launch island-wide customs closure operations, entering a new development phase and laying the groundwork for a future built on zero tariffs, low tax rates, and a simplified tax system. By the end of the 15th Five-Year Plan period, these core policies are expected to be fully implemented.
Industrial Growth with ASEAN in Focus
Hainan is advancing a modern industrial system based on tourism, modern services, high-tech industries, and tropical agriculture, while also targeting breakthroughs in deep-sea exploration, aerospace, healthcare, and education.
To sustain long-term momentum, the province is aligning its development with ASEAN markets, leveraging China’s domestic demand while expanding regional outreach.
ASEAN Dialogue in Haikou: Building Trust and Opportunity
The strategy gained further traction during the 2025 Haikou–ASEAN Consulates General in Guangzhou Dialogue Conference, held under the theme “Pooling Wisdom, Creating Opportunities, and Achieving Win-Win Cooperation.”
The event brought together ASEAN consuls general from Guangzhou and Haikou, government leaders, and business elites for in-depth exchanges on trade, tourism, cultural ties, and investment. The Consulates General of Indonesia, Singapore, and Cambodia presented new opportunities in these sectors, reinforcing interest in Haikou’s regional partnerships.
Government departments including the Haikou Foreign Affairs Department and the Haikou International Investment Promotion Bureau and Longhua District showcased Haikou’s development momentum and positioning within the Hainan Free Trade Port’s core leading zone. The city’s “Six Key City Roles” strategy was highlighted, showcasing its strengths in digital industries, creative sectors, and international cooperation.
A Shared Vision for the Future
Across both forums, a shared message emerged: Hainan is not only opening its doors to ASEAN, it’s building lasting infrastructure for mutual growth. International participants expressing confidence in Hainan as a destination for future investment and collaboration.
As the Hainan Free Trade Port accelerates its transformation into a high-level open economy, its engagement with ASEAN stands out as a strategic centerpiece, promising shared development, integrated markets, and stronger people-to-people ties across the region.
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