海南封关，远比你想象的重要

Core Insights - Hainan is set to officially close its borders on December 18, marking a significant step towards establishing a new type of offshore international trade center, which aims to shift Chinese enterprises from being mere suppliers to service providers in global trade [3][4][5] Group 1: New Offshore Trade Model - The new offshore trade model allows Chinese companies to engage in global trade without passing through Chinese ports, enhancing their role in the global supply chain [3] - This model emphasizes remote control and management of trade processes, enabling companies to coordinate procurement, processing, and sales across multiple countries [3] Group 2: Importance of Hainan Free Trade Port - Hainan's free trade port will cover an area of 35,400 square kilometers, significantly larger than existing free trade zones in China, providing ample space for talent and enterprises [5] - The free trade port will offer greater openness compared to traditional free trade zones, with most goods exempt from tariffs and simplified trade regulations [7][20] Group 3: Competitive Advantages - Hainan's free trade port will implement a zero-tariff policy for over 70% of goods, compared to Shanghai's limited tariff exemptions, making it a more attractive location for offshore trade [7][19] - The port will also feature a simplified customs process, allowing goods to enter before customs declaration, enhancing operational efficiency [7] Group 4: Service Trade Growth - The global trade landscape has shifted, with intermediate goods now accounting for over 70% of trade, and service trade comprising 30% of total trade volume, indicating a need for high-quality service support in offshore trade [8][9] - Hainan's service trade is projected to grow over 20% in 2024, with significant increases in sectors like transportation, tourism, and digital trade [9] Group 5: Offshore RMB Settlement Center - Hainan aims to establish an offshore RMB settlement center, complementing Hong Kong's existing role, to facilitate domestic and international capital flow [11][12] - This center will enhance the internationalization of the RMB and attract foreign investment, contributing to Hainan's financial ecosystem [12][15] Group 6: Challenges and Opportunities - Despite its potential, Hainan faces challenges such as a lack of financial market openness and service infrastructure, which could hinder its ability to attract high-quality resources [14] - However, Hainan's strategic location and the government's support for establishing a financial settlement center present significant opportunities for growth [14][15] Group 7: Future Trade Rules - The evolving global trade rules emphasize "zero tariffs," "zero barriers," and "zero subsidies," which align with Hainan's goals for trade liberalization [17][18] - Hainan's free trade port is positioned to experiment with these principles, potentially serving as a model for broader national implementation [20][21]