The Growing Ties Between Hainan and the UAE: A New Era of Economic Cooperation
On May 19, 2025, the vibrant city of Dubai played host to a significant event that marked a milestone in the ongoing relationship between the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) of China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The 2025 China Hainan Free Trade Port-UAE Promotion Conference attracted over 250 attendees, including government officials, leaders from the free trade zone, business executives, and media representatives. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as discussions centered on trade liberalization and investment opportunities, symbolizing a promising direction for Hainan as it seeks to solidify its position as an innovative economic hub.
A Vision for Economic Transformation
Feng Fei, Secretary of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee, opened the conference with a powerful message about Hainan’s commitment to creating a robust free trade port. He outlined a vision grounded in a market-oriented environment, hallmark features of which include zero tariffs, low tax rates, and a simplified tax system. The focus on these principles demonstrates Hainan’s strategic approach to attract international business and investment, particularly emphasizing cooperation with the UAE in burgeoning sectors such as the digital economy and green energy.
Chinese Ambassador to the UAE, Zhang Yiming, added depth to this vision. He noted that Hainan’s open policies resonate deeply with the UAE’s "50-Year Development Plan." This alignment presents a unique opportunity for both regions to collaborate and set a new benchmark for economic partnerships between China and the broader Middle East, establishing a pathway for future growth.
Engaging with Innovative Sectors
The conference also highlighted the commitment of the UAE to foster cooperation with Hainan, especially in the realm of innovative sectors. Abdulla Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of Foreign Trade and Industry at the UAE Ministry of Economy, emphasized the importance of engaging with the Hainan FTP’s financial liberalization and cross-border trade facilitation policies. The UAE’s interest in exploring innovative cooperation models, especially in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, signals a willingness to embrace the future of trade.
Additionally, notable figures like Dr. Ali M. Al-Khouri and Marwan Al Marri expressed their optimism about the cooperation prospects between the two regions. Their confidence reflects a broader vision of leveraging technology for economic growth and mutual benefit.
Opportunities from Hainan’s FTP
The Hainan Provincial Bureau of International Economic Development presented a comprehensive outline of the advantageous policies and developmental opportunities available through the Hainan FTP. Attendees were particularly interested in thematic presentations by the Hainan Provincial Financial Supervision and Administration Bureau and the Danzhou Municipal Government, which focused on financial pilot initiatives and new investment avenues within the Danzhou-Yangpu Economic Circle.
Companies like Mingyang Group, Qilu Pharmaceutical, and Mellser International Medical Center showcased Hainan’s unique industries and specialty products, underlining their eagerness to expand into the Middle Eastern market. This sharing of insights about local businesses painted a clear picture of the diverse opportunities that Hainan presents.
Building Strategic Alliances
A significant highlight of the conference was the signing of four strategic cooperation agreements between Hainan and enterprises from the UAE and Saudi Arabia. These agreements cover various sectors, including new energy, logistics parks, automobile trade, and the construction of headquarters bases. Such strategic alliances are crucial for fostering bilateral cooperation and set the stage for long-term business relationships.
The conference also facilitated a business negotiation session, allowing representatives from over 100 Chinese and Arab companies to forge connections. This direct engagement underlines a mutual desire to collaborate and expand respective markets, ensuring a foundation for future economic interactions.
Conclusion
The Hainan Free Trade Port-UAE Promotion Conference in Dubai exemplifies the growing economic ties between China and the UAE. As both regions endeavor to capitalize on emerging opportunities, the commitment to cooperation in sectors such as new energy and digital economies paves the way for a promising partnership. The conference not only served as a platform for dialogue but also as a harbinger of a new era in international trade and economic collaboration.
