人民日报：国际上保护主义抬头，为什么还要积极扩大自主开放

Core Viewpoint - The launch of the Hainan Free Trade Port on December 18, 2025, marks a significant step in China's commitment to expanding its autonomous openness despite rising global protectionism [1][2]. Group 1: Hainan Free Trade Port Development - The Hainan Free Trade Port will implement a policy characterized by "open on the first line, controlled on the second line, and free within the island," facilitating the flow of people, goods, capital, and data [1]. - Since the release of the overall plan for Hainan Free Trade Port in June 2020, the province has attracted 102.5 billion yuan in foreign investment, with an annual growth rate of 14.6% [2]. - Trade in goods and services has seen annual growth rates of 31.3% and 32.3%, respectively, increasing the economic openness of Hainan to 35% [2]. Group 2: National Open Policy Context - China's reform and opening-up strategy has been crucial for achieving new developmental milestones, with nearly 1.24 million foreign-invested enterprises established in China by the end of 2024 [3]. - In November, actual foreign investment in China increased by 26.1% year-on-year, reflecting the ongoing commitment to openness despite global trade protectionism [3]. Group 3: Concept of Autonomous Openness - Autonomous openness is characterized by a proactive approach to opening up based on China's development needs and the necessity for positive global interaction, moving from a "follower" to a "leader" in openness [4]. - This approach emphasizes cooperation and mutual benefit, rather than being solely driven by external pressures or the principle of reciprocity [4]. - Initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative, the establishment of free trade pilot zones, and the expansion of zero-tariff treatment for products from the least developed countries demonstrate China's commitment to pragmatic and proactive openness [4]. Group 4: Economic and Market Potential - China possesses the world's largest middle-income group, a complete industrial system with over 200 mature industrial clusters, and a large pool of skilled labor and entrepreneurs, providing a strong foundation for proactive international engagement [5]. - Expanding autonomous openness is seen as a dual benefit, enhancing domestic reform and development while fostering international cooperation and mutual benefits [5].