MICE industry turns 'green engine' for Hainan economy

Tropical island province looks to draw in more revenue streams, visitors

Hainan province's MICE industry - meetings, incentives, conferencing and exhibitions - is growing fast and becoming a strong driver for local tourism development, as more firms choose the tropical island for their showcase events, encouraged by government support, high-profile international summits and the island's natural charms.

Around 2,000 convention and exhibition activities were held in 2018 in Hainan. Events mainly took place in Haikou, the provincial capital at the northern tip of Hainan Island; Sanya, an international coastal resort city at the southern tip; and Boao in Qionghai, the permanent site of the Boao Forum for Asia, according to the Department of Commerce of Hainan province.