Policy shift propels duty-free shopping in Hainan

Authorities have streamlined logistics and customs checks to keep up with demand. A new drone delivery system, the first of its kind in China for duty-free goods, has cut shipping times, while automated customs clearance has sped up approvals by 60 percent.

"We were initially concerned about storage and logistics pressure as our duty-free product range expanded," said Zhang Bin, general manager of the Sanya International Duty Free Shopping Complex. "But thanks to optimized customs clearance processes, goods arriving in the morning can now be on shelves by afternoon."

Retailers are now targeting summer travelers with family-friendly promotions. China Duty Free Group, which operates six Hainan stores, is blending shopping with family tourism and entertainment, including a Care Bears-themed pop-up and interactive events.

Analysts say the policy shift has cemented Hainan Free Trade Port's status as a shopping hub, though challenges like global travel reopening loom.