Core Viewpoint - The establishment of Hainan as a free trade port is a significant step towards developing a new type of offshore international trade center, which aims to enhance China's role in global trade beyond being just a supplier of goods [4][5][6]. Group 1: New Offshore Trade Model - Hainan aims to transition from a traditional offshore trade model, where Chinese companies primarily act as suppliers, to a new model where they also serve as facilitators for goods from other countries [4][5]. - The new offshore trade model involves remote control operations, allowing companies to manage procurement, processing, and sales without passing through Chinese ports [5][6]. Group 2: Hainan's Strategic Importance - 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 [6]. - The free trade port will offer greater openness compared to free trade zones, with over 70% of goods exempt from tariffs and simplified customs procedures [6][7]. Group 3: Financial and Service Trade Development - Hainan is positioned to develop a service trade sector that complements its offshore trade ambitions, with service trade growth rates projected to exceed 20% in 2024 [8][9]. - The establishment of an offshore RMB settlement center in Hainan is crucial for facilitating cross-border trade and investment, enhancing the internationalization of the RMB [10][11]. Group 4: Global Trade Dynamics - The global trade landscape is shifting towards a model where products are produced through complex international supply chains, necessitating low tariffs, minimal barriers, and no subsidies [16][17]. - Hainan's free trade port will implement a "zero tariff" policy for a broader range of goods, increasing the proportion of zero-tariff items from 21% to 74% [19]. Group 5: Future Prospects - Hainan's development as a free trade port is seen as a critical experiment for broader national policies, with the potential to set a precedent for future free trade agreements [20][21]. - The unique position of Hainan, with its less developed economic background, allows for the implementation of innovative economic policies without the friction that might occur in more developed regions [21].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the significance of Hainan's upcoming closure on December 18, marking a pivotal moment for the establishment of a new offshore international trade center, which aims to enhance China's role in global trade and improve its competitive edge [4][5]. Group 1: New Offshore Trade Concept - Hainan aims to develop a new type of offshore trade, transitioning from being merely a supplier of goods to a service-oriented role similar to Singapore, facilitating trade for goods from other countries [7]. - The new offshore trade model allows Chinese enterprises to engage in global supply chains without passing through Chinese ports, enhancing operational efficiency [7][8]. Group 2: Importance of Hainan Free Trade Port - The Hainan Free Trade Port will cover an area of 35,400 square kilometers, significantly larger than existing free trade zones, providing ample space for talent and enterprises [8]. - The port's open policies will surpass those of traditional free trade zones, with over 70% of goods enjoying zero tariffs and simplified customs procedures [9][20]. Group 3: Financial and Service Trade Development - Hainan is positioned to become a center for offshore RMB settlement, complementing Hong Kong's established role, and facilitating the flow of capital between domestic and international markets [12][13]. - The growth of service trade in Hainan is projected to exceed 20% in 2024, with significant increases in sectors like transportation, tourism, and digital trade [10]. Group 4: Global Trade Dynamics - The article discusses the shift in global trade dynamics, highlighting the rise of intermediate goods in trade and the increasing importance of service trade, which now constitutes 30% of total trade volume [10][18]. - The "Three Zeros" principle (zero tariffs, zero barriers, and zero subsidies) is identified as a new international trade rule that Hainan aims to adopt to enhance its trade competitiveness [18][19]. Group 5: Future Prospects - Hainan's development as a free trade port is seen as a critical step in China's broader strategy to enhance its global trade position and attract foreign investment [22][24]. - The article draws parallels between Hainan and Shenzhen's past, suggesting that Hainan's current status as a less developed region may provide a unique opportunity for reform and growth [23][24].