by XIN Yuan
South China's Hainan province is seeking to expand duty-free shopping and broaden visa-free entry, as part of its efforts to build its free trade port into an international tourism hub.
A draft regulation released on Sept.2 calls for higher shopping quotas, more product categories and easier pickup options to boost Hainan's offshore duty-free sector. The island already saw strong demand this summer, with 12 operators recording 3.67 billion yuan (about US$510 million) in sales from July to August, according to Haikou Customs.
Visa-free entry would be broadened to cover nationals from countries specially approved by the State Council, eligible transit visitors entering through designated Chinese cities, certain tour groups organized via Hong Kong or Macau, and international cruise passengers.
The proposal encourages marine tourism such as resorts, cruises and deep-sea sightseeing, while urging banks and insurers to provide tailored financial support. It also seeks to attract major tourism companies and talent, allowing foreigners to take exams for tour guide and lifeguard qualifications and supporting international education programs.
Consumer protections include bans on false advertising, hidden charges and price collusion in hotels, restaurants, taxis and scenic transport. Authorities would integrate tourism safety into contingency plans for peak flows and accidents.
Public consultation runs until September 21, ahead of Hainan's planned launch of an independent customs regime on December 18, 2025. The move will establish a separate customs zone on the island, seen as a significant step in China's opening-up.
