人民日报：“加快建设具有世界影响力的中国特色自由贸易港”

Core Viewpoint - The official launch of the Hainan Free Trade Port marks a significant milestone in China's reform and opening-up strategy, aiming to establish Hainan as a leading gateway for international trade and investment, reflecting the country's commitment to high-level openness and innovation [4][5][9]. Group 1: Historical Context and Development - The establishment of the Hainan Free Trade Port is a culmination of decades of reform, starting from the creation of the Hainan Economic Special Zone in 1988 to the announcement of the Free Trade Port concept by President Xi Jinping in 2018 [6][15]. - The date of December 18, 2025, is symbolically significant as it coincides with the anniversary of the Third Plenary Session of the 11th Central Committee, which initiated China's reform and opening-up [5][6]. Group 2: Strategic Goals and Vision - The strategic goal is to make Hainan a significant portal for China's new era of opening-up, emphasizing the need for a systematic approach to reform and innovation [9][15]. - Hainan's development is aligned with the "14th Five-Year Plan" and is included in the central economic work conference's key tasks for the upcoming year, highlighting its importance in national economic strategy [7][9]. Group 3: Economic Impact and Growth - Hainan's trade volume has seen substantial growth, with total imports and exports increasing from 933.3 billion yuan in 2020 to 2,778.9 billion yuan in 2024, marking a significant leap in economic activity [18]. - The four main industries in Hainan—tourism, modern services, high-tech industries, and tropical agriculture—accounted for 67.2% of the regional GDP in the first three quarters of the year, reflecting a 14.2 percentage point increase since 2020 [18]. Group 4: Policy Innovations and Implementation - The Hainan Free Trade Port is characterized by a "one line open, two lines controlled, and free within the island" policy framework, facilitating a more liberalized and convenient trade environment [23]. - The port has implemented various innovative policies, such as tax exemptions for international shipping and streamlined customs procedures, to enhance its competitiveness as an international shipping hub [23][24]. Group 5: International Cooperation and Investment - Hainan aims to attract global investment, with over 1,025 billion yuan in actual foreign investment and significant growth in overseas direct investment, indicating a robust international interest [19]. - The port's strategic location and unique policies position it as a critical player in global trade, enhancing China's role in promoting multilateralism and open trade [19][34].