Free Trade Port

Will Fujian ever surpass Taiwan in GDP and income? [Eye on Fujian series]

For many years, Fujian’s development narrative included an ambitious goal: to surpass Taiwan in GDP first and per capita income later. Slower growth and Taiwan’s tech edge make that increasingly challenging. EAI senior research fellow Bo Chen explains Fujian’s rise and its challenges.

Bo Chen

24 Mar 2026

Hainan is where China tests its next opening model

Hainan Free Trade Port is China’s testbed for a new opening model — centred on institutions, ecosystem-building and two-way cooperation. Rather than sidelining Singapore, this points to a broader and more integrated regional economic architecture. Academic Gu Qingyang shares his views.

Gu Qingyang

27 Jan 2026

Hainan Free Trade Port: A game changer?

In December 2025, Hainan became an independent customs zone from the rest of mainland China, advancing its aim of becoming a globally influential free trade port by 2050. Other factors, not just favourable tariffs alone, will determine the success of this project, says academic Ngeow Chow Bing.

Ngeow Chow Bing

07 Jan 2026

China’s third plenum doubles down on free trade zones

China is counting on its 22 free trade zones and only free trade port in the southern Hainan province to give its reform and opening up a lift. But headwinds in the tense geopolitical environment could keep foreign investment at bay. EAI deputy director Chen Gang explains.

Chen Gang

01 Aug 2024

Here's how Hainan can become the next financial hub

Hainan is set to become China's first free trade port and has great potential to beef up its financial offerings. Academics Pei Sai Fan and Chen Jingwei present a number of suggestions that could boost the Chinese province's standing as an international hub for financial and regulatory innovations, green financing and connectivity.

Pei Sai Fan, Chen Jingwei

15 Aug 2022

Hainan Free Trade Port: Replacing Hong Kong?

Offshore duty-free policy, lower rentals and proximity to mainland China - will the development of Hainan free trade port impact Hong Kong's functions and status? Zaobao correspondent Meng Dandan seeks experts' views for a clearer picture.

Meng Dandan

09 Jun 2020