CGTN: How China opens its door wider with island-wide special customs operations in Hainan FTP

Core Insights - The launch of island-wide special customs operations at Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) aims to enhance business investment and facilitate cross-border flows of goods and production factors, positioning Hainan as a key hub for domestic and international markets [1][2][3] Business Environment - Hainan FTP is now the world's largest FTP by area, allowing freer entry of overseas goods and expanding zero-tariff coverage [2] - The share of zero-tariff products in Hainan FTP will increase from 21% to 74%, with tariff-free items expanding from approximately 1,900 to 6,637, covering nearly all production equipment and raw materials [4] Company Perspectives - L'Oréal expresses optimism about growth opportunities in Hainan, highlighting the region's status as a major global shopping destination [5] - Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group anticipates benefits from the zero-tariff policy on raw materials, which will reduce import costs by 8% in tariffs and 13% in value-added tax on green coffee beans [6] Investment Trends - Hainan Weili Medical Technology has saved over 4 million yuan (approximately $567,920) in tariffs since early 2023, allowing for increased investment in R&D and market expansion [9] - Foreign direct investment in Hainan reached $9.78 billion over the past five years, growing at an annual rate of 97%, with investments from 176 countries and regions [10] Strategic Positioning - Hainan's unique position links the domestic market of 1.4 billion people with the Southeast Asian market of nearly 700 million people, creating a trade route for raw materials processed in Hainan to be distributed to the mainland [11][12] - The special customs operations reflect China's commitment to high-standard opening up, which is expected to boost both the domestic economy and global growth [13]