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Hainan at forefront: China's Free Trade Port and the next phase of high-quality opening

Following the Central Economic Work Conference held last week, China's policy direction for the year ahead is coming into sharper focus, with the Hainan Free Trade Port standing out as a core platform for advancing high-quality opening up. Hainan is entering a new phase of development within China's network of 22 free trade zones, underscored by the launch of island-wide special customs operations in the Hainan Free Trade Port and deeper alignment with international trade rules. Beyond Hainan, national-level policy priorities for the 2026 economic agenda are being rolled out, focusing on stabilizing growth, expanding domestic demand, and deepening structural reforms. At the same time, technological innovation and scenario-based applications – from AI to emerging industries – are being positioned as key drivers of productivity and long-term economic resilience. These developments show how China is advancing high-quality growth through institutional reform and innovation.