Read in Chinese

Speakers: 

Mr. Liu Xiaoming, deputy secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Hainan Provincial Committee and governor of Hainan province

Ms. Xie Jing, vice governor of Hainan province and director general of the Hainan Provincial Department of Science and Technology

Mr. Guan Jirong, deputy secretary-general of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee and executive vice director of the Office of the Hainan Free Trade Port Working Committee

Mr. Chen Jiyang, deputy secretary-general of the People's Government of Hainan Province and director general of the Hainan Provincial Department of Business Environment Development

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

April 11, 2024

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). Today, we are holding the ninth briefing in the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." We have invited Mr. Liu Xiaoming, deputy secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Hainan Provincial Committee and governor of Hainan province, to brief you on deepening reform and opening-up across the board, and accelerating the development of a free trade port with Chinese characteristics and global influence. He will also take your questions. Also joining us today are Ms. Xie Jing, vice governor of Hainan province and director general of the Hainan Provincial Department of Science and Technology; Mr. Guan Jirong, deputy secretary-general of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee and executive vice director of the Office of the Hainan Free Trade Port Working Committee; and Mr. Chen Jiyang, deputy secretary-general of the People's Government of Hainan Province and director general of the Hainan Provincial Department of Business Environment Development.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Liu for his introduction.

Liu Xiaoming:

Good morning. It’s a great pleasure to meet you here. First of all, on behalf of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee and the Hainan provincial government, I'd like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your long-term interest in and support for Hainan. 

April 13 marks the sixth anniversary of General Secretary Xi Jinping's announcement of establishing the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP). Over the past six years, we have consistently adhered to the principle of serving the national strategies with high-level opening-up and driving Hainan's high-quality development. An initial FTP policy system has been established, with the main framework focusing on trade, investment, cross-border capital flows, personnel mobility, free and convenient transportation, and the safe, orderly flow of data. The construction of the Hainan FTP has taken shape and gained momentum, serving as both a booster and an accelerator for Hainan's high-quality development. General Secretary Xi Jinping has successively affirmed Hainan's progress with expressions like "smooth start," "vigorous progress," "significant advancements," and "vibrant thriving." During his inspection tour to Hainan in 2022, the general secretary called for accelerating the development of Hainan into a free trade port with Chinese characteristics and global influence, turning Hainan into a paradigm of reform and opening-up in the new era, and shaping it into a landmark showcasing Chinese splendor. 

Last year, several economic and social indicators in Hainan displayed growth rates that ranked among the top in the country. Specifically, Hainan's GDP increased by 9.2%, the value-added of industries above designated size grew by 18.5%, and the per capita disposable income of urban and rural residents went up by 6.3% and 8.3%, respectively. Trade in goods and services, reflecting the FTP's economic performance, increased by 15.3% and 29.6%, respectively. Moreover, Hainan's opening-up involved two-way engagement, with imports accounting for around two-thirds and outbound direct investment surging by 104.9%, allowing the world to share in the development opportunities presented by Hainan and China. 

Currently, we're coordinating the preparations for achieving independent customs operations with economic and social development, and conducting various stress tests for these operations. We are striving to play a more significant leading role in promoting high-level opening-up, accelerating high-quality development, and enhancing the tangible benefits gained from a high-quality life. By doing so, we aim to better serve and integrate into the new development pattern and celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China with outstanding accomplishments.

First, we will drive high-level opening-up through the construction of the Hainan FTP. We will fully leverage the role of the FTP as a comprehensive pilot platform for reform and opening-up, focus on innovative reforms and pioneering opening-up strategies, and introduce a number of integrated institutional innovations with broader significance and greater influence. We will take the lead in aligning with high-standard international economic and trade rules, conducting thorough stress tests, and promoting dynamic upgrading, optimization, and effectiveness of Hainan FTP policies. 

Second, we will empower the establishment of a modern industrial system with new quality productive forces. We have made the tough decision to break away from the economy's dependence on real estate and accelerated the establishment of Hainan's characteristic modern industrial system, described as"4 plus 3 plus 3." The "4" refers to vigorously developing the tourism industry, modern services, high-tech industry, and characteristic high-efficiency tropical agriculture. The contribution of these four leading industries to the province's GDP has increased by over 10 percentage points since 2018. The first "3" involves forward-looking arrangements for the three future industries of Nanfan, or seed breeding in South China , deep-sea technology, and commercial aerospace, creating an important practice base for developing new quality productive forces. The second "3" refers to effectively reclaiming overseas consumption in three areas: high-end shopping, healthcare and education.

Third, we will make coordinated efforts to advance the integrated development of education, science and technology, and talent. We will solidify the development of basic education and enhance its openness, promote the high-quality and balanced development of basic education, and strive for leapfrog development in higher education. By doing so, we aim to expedite the construction of an international education innovation island and explore a path for high-level opening-up in China's education sector. We will create dual hubs for sci-tech innovation and institutional reform and focus on achieving technological breakthroughs in areas such as biological breeding, ocean observation, and the application of satellite big data. In addition, we will expand international sci-tech exchange and cooperation and accelerate the reform of the property rights system reform for sci-tech advancements. By 2025, we aim to achieve the goal of attracting a million talents to Hainan.

Fourth, we are promoting coordinated regional development by treating the entire province as a single entity and promoting the integrated development of the island. We upgrade three economic circles, namely the Haikou Economic Circle, the Sanya Economic Circle, and the Danzhou-Yangpu Economic Circle. We also connect coastal cities with the Hainan Island Ring Road Tourism Highway and form a synergy with central ecological conservation areas among mountains to enhance overall development momentum.

Fifth, we are accelerating green and low-carbon transformation by striving to be a model in achieving the dual carbon goals. We regard the protection of the ecological environment as the top priority for Hainan. Therefore, we are continuously implementing landmark projects such as the Tropical Rainforest National Park, promoting clean energy islands and clean energy vehicles, banning plastics, advancing prefabricated construction, enhancing integrated water management, and developing the Boao near-zero carbon demonstration zone . Hainan aims to take the lead nationwide and make more contributions by establishing ocean carbon sinks and promoting green and low-carbon initiatives.

Sixth, we are expediting efforts to address inadequacies in public well-being from the perspective of development. This involves increasing investment in people's livelihoods, continuously introducing high-quality education and medical resources, ensuring that children have access to quality education nearby, and ensuring that residents can receive medical treatment locally for both minor and major ailments. We aim to convert the surge in business entities and investment project development brought about by the policies of the FTP into more high-quality employment opportunities, thus enhancing residents' sense of gain as we develop the FTP.

That's all for my introduction. Next, my colleagues and I will be happy to answer your questions. Thank you, everyone!

Xing Huina:

Now, the floor is open for questions. Please state the news organization you represent before asking your questions.  

People's Daily: 

During the past six years, Hainan has been working on building the China (Hainan) Pilot Free Trade Zone and has carried out exploratory work on setting up a free trade port with Chinese characteristics. Could you please introduce the current situation of the Hainan FTP construction? Thank you.

Liu Xiaoming: 

Thank you for your question; I will answer it. These years, Hainan province has resolutely implemented the decisions and arrangements made by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. Following the requirements of the master plan of the Hainan FTP, we have made efforts quickly and steadily to shape up the FTP, mainly focusing on the following four aspects. 

First, the accelerated release of policy benefits has made Hainan a hotbed for investment. Under the working mechanism of "central coordination, departmental support, and provincial implementation," the policy framework of the Hainan FTP has taken shape, bringing tangible benefits to businesses and the public. For instance, the three zero-tariff lists for imported raw and auxiliary materials, means of transportation and yachts, and self-use production equipment have resulted in a cumulative import value of 20.2 billion yuan and tax reductions of 3.81 billion yuan. The zero-tariff policy for domestically sold products with no less than 30% value-added from processing has been expanded to key industrial parks across the province, resulting in a cumulative domestic sales value of 4.71 billion yuan and tax reductions of 420 million yuan. In 2023, the number of offshore duty-free shopping visitors and the amount spent increased by 59.9% and 25.4%, respectively, year on year. Currently, foreign investment in Hainan continues to increase, with the number of newly established foreign-funded enterprises growing by 65% annually since 2018, totaling 6,543 enterprises.

Second, Hainan has been steadily expanding institutional opening-up by taking the lead in experimenting with high-standard economic and trade rules. Leveraging the advantages of various policies from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the FTP, we have pioneered the implementation of international high-standard economic and trade rules. Hainan has introduced a series of new measures in areas such as trade in services, digital trade, intellectual property protection, and cross-border data flows. To address policy implementation bottlenecks, pain points of lack of application scenarios, and difficulties in achieving noticeable effects, Hainan has promoted cross-department, cross-domain, and cross-regional institutional integration innovation through in-depth planning. It has released a total of 16 batches of 140 institutional integration innovation cases, among which 11 have been replicated and promoted nationwide by the State Council, and six have been commended nationally.

Third, Hainan has comprehensively prepared for the initiation of independent customs operations and steadily advanced toward higher standard opening-up. In 2023, we launched the preparations for independent customs operations, vigorously implementing three lists concerning tasks, projects, and stress tests with strenuous efforts. This year marks a pivotal year for advancing customs closure operations. We will complete the construction of hardware and software for independent customs operations and conduct comprehensive, whole-process stress tests on policy systems, facilities, system platforms, and management capabilities. Simultaneously, we are striving to create a first-class business environment characterized by the rule of law, internationalization, and facilitation, to ensure smooth initiation of independent customs operations as scheduled.

Fourth, Hainan has made solid and effective progress in risk prevention and control, with significant improvements in governance systems and capabilities. Adhering to the principle that effective management allows for greater opening-up, we have established contingency plans, improved mechanisms, and made regular adjustments to address potential risks associated with the implementation of various policies in the FTP. Through initiatives such as Smart Hainan and Hainan Credit, we will be able to identify, prevent, and manage risks, as well as firmly guard against systemic risks. Thank you.

Red Star News:

The growth rate of Hainan's expenditure in research and experimental development has ranked among the top nationwide in recent years. What are the features and highlights of Hainan in terms of sci-tech innovation? Thank you.

Xie Jing:

In recent years, Hainan has fully leveraged its comparative advantages in temperature, depth, latitude and greenness, referred to as "three degrees and one color," to accelerate the establishment of innovation hubs in key industries such as seed development, deep-sea exploration, and aerospace. These efforts have also contributed to promoting green transformation. Significant achievements have been made in sci-tech innovation. Notable examples include Sanya's Nanfan Silicon Valley and the Deep Sea Science and Technology City, which have emerged as national benchmarks and clusters for sci-tech innovation in the seed industry and deep-sea research, respectively. With the completion of the country's first commercial aerospace launch site, aerospace research forces are also accelerating their convergence in Hainan.

In the past three years, the sci-tech development in Hainan can be summarized by "four new achievements": First, there have been a leap in the number of national-level sci-tech innovation platforms, marked by the establishment of the Yazhou Bay National Laboratory, which resulted in the doubling of the number of national-level sci-tech innovation platforms in Hainan. Second, research and development (R&D) investment has reached new heights, with the growth rate for R&D spending by the entire society ranking at the forefront of the country for three consecutive years and the number of patent applications granted more than doubling. Third, there have been new achievements in introducing and cultivating sci-tech professionals, with the number of national-level professionals in key areas growing geometrically and the full-time equivalent of R&D personnel doubling. Fourth, there has been new progress in corporate innovation, with a 75% increase in the number of high-tech enterprises in the province and nearly a threefold increase in the turnover of technology contracts.

Going forward, Hainan will focus on the following aspects to accelerate the development of sci-tech innovation and the sci-tech system reform:

First, we will further leverage comparative advantages to enhance sci-tech innovation capabilities in key areas such as land, sea and air, thereby significantly contributing to national strategic development in science and technology.

Second, we will further concentrate on developing useful science and technology, centering on emerging industries such as the digital economy, petrochemical new materials, and biomedicine, as well as the three future industries of Nanfan, or seed breeding in south China, deep-sea exploration, and aerospace. We plan to launch a series of scenario applications, enhance the commercialization of scientific and technological achievements, and promote the deep integration of the innovation and industrial chains.

Third, we will further emphasize institutional integration and innovation, launch a three-year intensive campaign for sci-tech system reform, reinforce the principal role of enterprises in innovation, and strive to achieve landmark results.

Fourth, we will fully leverage the open advantages of the FTP to enhance international sci-tech cooperation level and create a competitive international open innovation environment. Thank you!

Cnr.cn:

Hainan has proposed building itself into an important player for developing new quality productive forces. Can you introduce the advantages of Hainan? Going forward, what are the key areas for Hainan to focus on? Thank you.

Liu Xiaoming:

Thank you for your questions. I will address them. We are relying on Hainan's comparative advantages in two key areas to build the province into an important player for developing new quality productive forces. The first area is its natural endowment in terms of temperature, depth, latitude and greenness, also known as the "three degrees and one color." The second area is the benefits derived from the policies for the FTP and opening-up. Specifically, we will make great efforts in the following five aspects to build Hainan into an important player for developing new quality productive forces:

First, we will strive to develop the seed industry. Hainan is a tropical province, and more than 70% of China's main crop varieties are cultivated through seed breeding in south China, forming what is known as the Nanfan seed industry. Currently, we have gathered over 2,800 innovative seed enterprises, with the output value of the Nanfan seed industry exceeding 12 billion yuan. Next, we will exert all efforts to make breakthroughs in developing seeds, often referred to as "agricultural chips." We will also accelerate the construction of the Nanfan Agricultural Silicon Valley , which serves the whole country. For example, a variety of domestically produced durians, branded Shushangshu, was first introduced to the market in Sanya and was well received last year. We will strengthen research, development, innovation, and utilization to promote the localization of more imported fruits and vegetables.

Second, we will strengthen the marine industry. Hainan is the province with the largest marine area in China, thereby boasting a wide range of application scenarios. Currently, Hainan has over 1,000 high-tech marine enterprises, and a batch of major deep-sea equipment has been put into operation. Going forward, we will actively advance emerging marine industries such as deep-sea technology, marine intelligent equipment manufacturing, and deep-sea aquaculture. This year, the goal is to exceed 310 billion yuan in gross marine product. Moreover, we have a greater goal of building a stronger Hainan with a thriving marine industry over the next decade.

Third, we will focus on the aerospace industry. Hainan is ideally suited for the development of the aerospace industry due to its geographical latitude. The No. 1 launch pad of China's first commercial spacecraft launch site was completed at the end of last year, and the construction of the No. 2 launch pad was also finished at the end of March this year, expected to be capable of supporting regular launches starting in June. Currently, many leading domestic commercial aerospace enterprises are competing for launch opportunities. With a focus on the rocket chain, we will also expand and promote the establishment of "space plus" industrial projects, such as the satellite chain and the data chain, striving to develop the Wenchang International Aerospace City into a hub that integrates space launches, R&D, manufacturing, tourism, and international exchanges.

Fourth, we will pursue green development. We are deepening our efforts to build a "clean energy island," significantly reducing carbon footprints. The proportion of installed clean energy equipment has reached 78.5%, ranking among the highest in China. During the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024, the near-zero carbon demonstration zone at Dongyu Island received wide attention. We will explore more practical approaches for transforming carbon into a valuable resource, building a 2.0 version of the clean energy island, developing green industries such as offshore wind power and photovoltaic projects, promoting the production, storage, transportation and utilization of green hydrogen, and advancing the green transformation and upgrading of industries such as petrochemical new materials.

Fifth, our efforts will focus on digitization. We will leverage the Hainan FTP's policies on the secure and orderly flow of data, and improve digital infrastructure such as 5G, green computing power and international communication submarine cables. We will also establish a comprehensive bureau for stepping up international communications services as soon as possible. We will enrich application scenarios for different sectors including helping Chinese games "go global", and develop local industries with a competitive edge, such as digital health and key components, to promote the digital economy of the Hainan FTP.

As a Chinese saying goes, "Seeing is believing." We welcome friends from the media to visit Hainan and experience firsthand the development and panoramic display of the new quality productive forces there. Thank you.

TASS news agency: 

Everyone is very interested in the independent customs operations. How has the preparation of related projects progressed? Could you also outline the vision for the development of the Hainan FTP after the implementation of island-wide independent customs operations? Thank you.

Guan Jirong:

The independent customs operations is of milestone significance for the development of the Hainan FTP and for the island province's high-quality development. At present, Hainan regards it as a top priority and is redoubling its efforts to make breakthroughs by focusing on the following three lists. The first one is the task list, which includes more than 40 key tasks, such as port planning and construction, as well as policy and institutional framework design, all progressing in an orderly manner. The second one is the project list, where the main work of 31 projects involving the independent customs operations has been basically completed. The third one is the stress test list, with full coverage and large-scale testing currently in full swing.

With solid progress made in the independent customs operations, several key and core policies have been put in place, bringing tangible benefits to businesses. In the future, we will ensure our policies bring even more benefits to enterprises. Here, I would like to share with you the vision of the Hainan FTP after it launches independent customs operations. In terms of trade liberalization and facilitation, more and more imported goods will enjoy zero-tariff treatment in Hainan, and consumers will reap greater benefits. We will pursue opening-up against higher standards in the services trade, with fewer restrictions on overseas individuals participating in domestic vocational qualification examinations. Consequently, an increasing number of overseas talent and professionals will come to work in Hainan. Regarding investment liberalization and facilitation, market access for foreign investment in medical care, education, telecommunications, and other fields will be further relaxed. People can enjoy world-class education in Hainan and access international drugs and medical devices yet to be marketed in China, as well as high-level foreign medical technology services. In terms of cross-border capital flow, Hainan will promote the free and convenient flow of capital across borders in an orderly manner, and the ability of the financial sector to serve the real economy will continue to strengthen. In the future, it will be more convenient to carry out cross-border wealth management in Hainan, which is conducive to attracting high-net-worth individuals (HNWI) to settle in Hainan and realize the global allocation of their assets. Concerning the facilitation of the entry and exit of personnel, people from 59 countries can enjoy visa-free access to Hainan. The number of foreign-funded enterprises is increasing, and more foreigners will become employees of local companies in Hainan, who can act as legal persons in public institutions, state-owned enterprises, and statutory organizations in Hainan. In terms of transportation facilitation, Hainan ranks second among China's provincial-level regions for the registered tonnage of international sailing ships. In the future, more international flights will stop over in Hainan to load passengers and cargo. The number of routes from Hainan to overseas regions will continue to increase, making it more convenient to reach the world from Hainan.

The blueprint has been drawn, and now is the time to forge ahead. We have the confidence and determination to fully implement the decisions and requirements of the central authorities and launch the independent customs operations as scheduled with the support of relevant ministerial-level departments and the joint efforts of the entire province. Thank you.

Hong Kong Bauhinia Magazine:

The business environment is a crucial aspect of the development of the FTP. What measures will Hainan take to further improve its business environment and attract more business entities to settle there? Thank you.

Chen Jiyang:

We often say, "Whether a business environment is good or not, business entities have the final say." The CPC Hainan Provincial Committee and Hainan provincial government regard the business environment as one of the eight important pillars supporting the development of the FTP. Hainan is taking all kinds of pragmatic and effective measures to optimize its business environment in order to enhance enterprises' sense of gain and satisfaction.

We have proposed to boost two brand initiatives in Hainan: One is called "Hainan FTP Welcomes Your Complaints" and the other is "Hainan FTP Serves You." Supporting the first brand initiative is a business environment complaint platform, which has been in operation for more than three years. We have received over 7,000 complaints from enterprises, with more than 95% of them resolved, including some long-standing problems that existed before the establishment of Hainan province.

For the other brand initiative, "Hainan FTP Serves You," we continually launch a variety of service measures for enterprises. For example, in the second half of last year, Hainan province carried out large-scale research and service activities targeting enterprises above designated size as well as specialized and sophisticated enterprises that produce new and unique products. Led by principal officials of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee and Hainan provincial government, we visited the enterprises, provided corresponding policies and services, and settled various problems. The enterprises rated our services and expressed their satisfaction with a rating of over 96%.

This year, the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee and the Hainan provincial government have launched a comprehensive campaign to improve the overall business environment. The primary focus is on being responsive to all requests and minimizing unnecessary disturbances. In terms of responsiveness, we have optimized several mechanisms. For instance, we have integrated services for handling business environment issues, the 12345 hotline, and various other channels for gathering feedback. This integration has enabled us to establish a comprehensive mechanism for collecting and addressing all enterprise issues. Businesses can now easily voice their concerns anywhere and at any time. With all issues incorporated into a single system, the resolution process is transparent to both businesses and government departments concerned, making it easier for us to track and supervise its progress. To achieve the goal of minimizing unnecessary disturbances, we have also recently launched an integrated monitoring platform for business-related activities. Government departments must now register to get data and material when they pay visits to enterprises, extend invitations to business leaders for events, or carry out enforcement inspections. While this may cause some inconvenience for the government, it offers greater convenience and peace of mind to businesses, allowing them to focus more effectively on their production and operations. Thank you.

Liu Xiaoming:

Let me add further details to Mr. Chen's response. Hainan possesses two main features. The first emphasizes the rule of law in the development of the FTP. Therefore, in the process of building the business environment, we are dedicated to creating a setting that is based on the rule of law and is both international and convenient. In 2021, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress enacted the "Law of the People's Republic of China on the Hainan Free Trade Port ," which formally anchors relevant policies in legal documentation, providing business entities with more stable expectations. The second feature is that Hainan has established a business environment management system. At the end of 2022, Hainan set up the country's first provincial business environment construction department, and in 2023, business environment bureaus were successively established at the municipal and county levels. This framework aims to coordinate efforts to improve our business environment. Thank you.

Cover News:

Hainan has abundant tourism resources that are attractive to both domestic and international tourists. How will Hainan further enhance the quality of its tourism services and improve visitor experiences? Thank you.

Xie Jing:

The tourism industry is one of Hainan's four pillar industries. Last year, Hainan saw a year-on-year increase of 49.9% in domestic and international tourist arrivals and a surge of 71.9% in its total tourism revenue, both reaching record highs. Hainan emerged as one of the provinces with the fastest recovery of the tourism market following the COVID-19 pandemic. During this year's Spring Festival, tourist arrivals and total tourism revenue increased by 48.8% and 62.7%, respectively, both setting historical records. The tourism sector has maintained good momentum, turning the traditional "Golden Week" into a prolonged "golden season."

The soaring popularity of tourism in Hainan is a testament to the deep affection that numerous tourists hold for the region. This is something we must cherish and protect with more efforts. We will implement stronger measures to showcase Hainan tourism as a landmark feature of the FTP. Our efforts will focus on the following three aspects:

First, we will concentrate on developing an international tourism consumption center by leveraging the supply side. This year, we will launch an intensive campaign to improve international tourism consumption. We will plan a series of iconic projects to create more tourist attractions and enhance tourism consumption scenarios. Additionally, we will upgrade our tourism infrastructure, continuously expand the capacity of airports and seaports, and provide tourists with a wider range of choices and improved experiences.

Second, we will strengthen industry standards and market guidance. We will fully leverage the role of industry associations and bolster industry self-discipline. We will introduce preferential measures such as joint marketing of air tickets and hotel bookings to guide businesses in setting reasonable prices. As we all know, Hainan is known for its warm sunshine during the winter; but actually, it also features refreshing sea breezes in summer. With its tropical rainforests and an island tourist highway, Hainan offers beautiful scenery and is an ideal travel destination year-round. By promoting off-peak tourism, we aim to provide tourists with more cost-effective travel options.

Third, we will vigorously crack down on irregularities in the tourism market and focus on improving service quality. We maintain a strict zero-tolerance attitude toward deceptive practices that target tourists. We will promptly investigate and penalize such misconduct, enforcing stringent regulations and imposing heavy penalties. Throughout the year, we will continue to take strong measures to clean up and improve the tourism market, ensuring that no one tarnishes the reputation of Hainan's tourism sector. Additionally, we will enhance the training and development of tourism professionals. We will launch the "Year of Enhancing Quality Tourism Services" campaign in 2024.

Currently, under the theme "Welcome to Cool Hainan for a Break from the Summer Heat," we are launching a series of signature activities such as "100 performances and 1,000 sporting events." We are developing unique tourism products, including water sports, rainforest hot springs, intangible cultural heritage events of the Li and Miao ethnic groups, and educational tours. The China International Consumer Products Expo 2024 will open the day after tomorrow , and we extend a special welcome to all present here today. We also expect more friends to come to Hainan for a deep and immersive experience. Thank you.

CMG:

Hainan has set its regional GDP growth target at around 8% for this year, which is relatively high compared to the national average. What measures will Hainan implement to achieve this ambitious goal? Thank you.

Liu Xiaoming:

Thank you for your question. I will answer this question. Hainan province has set a GDP growth target of about 8% this year. This is a proactive development goal we set based on in-depth research, taking into account what is needed and what is possible, as well as the present and the future. At present, we are pooling resources to carry out critical tasks on the following seven areas, including preparations for independent customs operations , enhancing investment expansion and efficiency, upgrading international tourism and consumption, reinforcing and upgrading weak links in the industrial chains , enhancing the overall business environment, ensuring financial stability while fostering expansion and quality improvement, and achieving a steady increase with improved quality in foreign trade and investment. We will vigorously improve government efficiency to ensure that predetermined goals can be achieved.

Based on the economic data in the first quarter, Hainan’s economy is functioning soundly, continuing its upward trend. We will focus on both the real economy and the facilitation of capital and personnel flow, continuously enhancing economic vitality.

In terms of the real economy, we will strengthen the stability of our industrial pillars. This year, we will continue to reinforce and upgrade weak links in industrial chains, accelerate development alignment with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, promote interplay and industrial cooperation with the national strategy of the development of the Yangtze River Delta and coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region, and promote the implementation of a new round of key industrial projects. On Feb. 27, the world's largest wind turbine blade officially rolled off the production line in Hainan. The swept area of this blade is equivalent to 9.4 standard football fields, demonstrating that Hainan now has the manufacturing capacity for ultra-large wind turbine components. This is also a microcosm of Hainan's efforts to promote the development of advanced manufacturing.

On the other hand, we aim to facilitate the capital and personnel flow at the FTP. Currently, we mainly focus on the following two aspects. The first is foreign trade and investment. This year, we will fully implement a new negative list for foreign investment at the Hainan FTP, establish and operate a multi-functional free trade account, upgrade the single window for international trade, and vigorously develop new business models such as cross-border e-commerce, overseas warehousing, offshore trade, and digital trade, and attract more international inflows of goods and capital with freer and more convenient trade and investment . The second is tourism and consumption. In the first quarter, the number of tourists received by Hainan and its total tourism revenue are expected to increase by 17.6% and 32.3%, respectively, with inbound tourism quadrupling compared to the same period of last year. Next, we will continue to work on winning back customers in three major areas, create special consumption scenarios such as "tourism + performing arts" and "tourism + sports," host the fourth China International Consumer Products Expo, and plan a series of major cultural tourism projects based on Hainan’s round-the-island tourist highway and the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park. For inbound tourists, we will make full use of the visa-free policy covering 59 countries, and introduce more entry facilitation measures. For example, we are about to launch a "Hainan wallet," which will enable inbound tourists to convert foreign currencies into electronic RMB on their mobile phones upon arrival in Hainan. They can use the electronic RMB anywhere they can use China's mobile payment system such as Alipay or WeChat.

I would like to add one more thing here. Hainan’s tourism is improving continuously, but there are still some bottlenecks. For example, during peak tourist seasons, vehicles crossing the Qiongzhou Strait experience congestion, economy air tickets are difficult to obtain, and there are still occasional service disputes. We are doing our best to address these issues, not only during the peak season of the Spring Festival holiday but also during the off-season. Therefore, we are confident and determined to further enhance Hainan’s reputation as a hub of tourism and consumption, ensuring that domestic and foreign guests can feel at home and travel in Hainan with peace of mind. Thank you.

China Daily:

Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone has been granted preferential policies for licensed drugs and medical devices, and has introduced more than 390 types of drugs and devices from overseas, providing more treatment options for domestic patients in urgent need of new medicines. What is Boao Lecheng's current operating situation? What are its development plans and prospects? Thank you.

Xie Jing:

As the only "special medical zone" in China, Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone has consistently adhered to the strategic positioning assigned by the nation and has essentially achieved a supply of innovative medicines and equipment that are in sync with the rest of the world. It has become a city of hope for patients with rare, difficult and complicated diseases to find new medicines, devices and treatments. Over the past five years, the number of medical tourists in the zone has increased by an average of 56% annually, while operating income has increased by an average of 65% per year. Additionally, the number of users of licensed drugs and medical devices has risen by an average of over 200% annually.

Recently, many people may have noticed that a drug for treating ALS, approved for sale in the United States in April last year, was introduced to Ruijin Hainan Hospital in Boao Lecheng just six months later. At the beginning of this year, domestic patients with ALS began using this innovative drug in Lecheng. Lecheng has pioneered the use of 391 such imported medicines and devices that are urgently needed for clinical use in China, benefiting more than 60,000 patients. At present, 28 medical institutions in Lecheng, including Ruijin Hainan Hospital, which has been approved to build a regional medical center, are open and operational. By the end of 2024, 10 more hospitals will open one after another, forming a "domestic + international" and "comprehensive + specialty" medical pattern. Lecheng has good medicines, equipment and hospitals. More and more domestic patients can access the most cutting-edge drugs and medical devices by coming to Lecheng, without having to go abroad or travel across oceans.

Lecheng is also leading the country in launching several tasks for institutional integration and innovation , such as real-world data research and the "medical + pharmaceutical" two-in-one supervision system. Currently, Lecheng has established close cooperation with over 170 pharmaceutical equipment companies from 20 countries. By using real-world data-assisted clinical evaluation in Lecheng, 13 pharmaceuticals and medical devices have been approved, significantly shortening the approval process. As a result, Lecheng has become the primary channel for the rapid entry of the world's latest pharmaceuticals and medical devices into China.

Next, we will focus on the following three aspects:

First, we will provide the people with better medical services and more innovative drugs and medical devices . This involves attracting more internationally renowned medical institutions and physicians, increasing the introduction of innovative drugs and medical devices from around the world, and contributing more "Lecheng strength" to the vision of building a "Healthy China."

Second, we will further deepen institutional integration and innovation. We will advance real-world data research from the "pilot" stage to the "upgraded" stage, offering Hainan's practical experience in exploring the deepening reform of drug and medical device evaluation and approval systems in China.

Third, we will continue to develop Lecheng into an international medical tourism destination . We will fully leverage Hainan's advantages in tourism resources and visa-free entry policy for 59 countries to expand into the international market and enhance Lecheng's global appeal. Thank you!

China News Service:

What specific measures has the Hainan FTP taken in terms of institutional innovation? How will it create more iconic achievements that distinguish it as an FTP in the future? Thank you.

Guan Jirong:

After several years of unremitting efforts, Hainan has achieved remarkable results in institutional integration and innovation. It has launched 16 batches of 140 innovation cases and gradually established a more mature working mechanism.

First, we have maintained coordination between the provincial government and central ministries. We have paid more attention to top-level design, strived for in-depth participation and strong support from relevant ministries, and jointly promoted 10 key innovation tasks. For example, the "five-in-one" intellectual property rights and the application of real-world data in medical insurance are at the forefront of the country. Second, we have benchmarked against high-standard economic and trade rules. We have implemented RCEP and further promoted 20 action measures. We have aligned with the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and conducted pilot projects in areas such as certification, accreditation and market entity registration. We have also coordinated with the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA) and started the formulation of a digital trade development plan. Currently, remarkable results have been achieved. Total trade in goods between Hainan province and RCEP member states achieved double-digit growth in 2023, and the total service trade volume doubled during the same year. Third, we have focused on key areas. We have planned and promoted a series of institutional integration and innovation initiatives centered around the policies and rules of the "five liberalizations and facilitation s, and the secure and orderly flow of data (the liberalization and facilitation of the flow of trade, investment, cross-border capital, personnel and transportation)." For example, we have implemented the full-process supervision model for "zero-tariff" imported goods, a traceability code management system for offshore duty-free goods, the "Yangpu Port in China" ship registration system," and "credit plus" approval services.

These institutional innovations have further stimulated the development vitality of the Hainan FTP and have played a positive role in enhancing its international competitiveness. For example, we launched China's first "single-window" system for international investment, achieving the goal of requiring only a single visit to register and establish an enterprise. The number of forms and documents required by enterprises has been reduced by 55%, and the approval process time has been cut by 70%. Additionally, a number of institutional innovation achievements have also been explored and established in areas of foreign-related lawyer services, international commercial dispute resolution, and the joint review and inspection of foreign nationals' work and residence permits.

Next, we will prioritize institutional integration and innovation as key approaches to create more remarkable achievements. First, we will focus on independent customs operation s and promote institutional integration. With no existing models to draw from, especially in the supervision of "second line" ports, we propose basic strategies such as "minimizing customs clearance time and the clearance processes , categorized supervision, smart supervision, and credit supervision." We must explore and establish a sound and efficient operating model through extensive institutional innovation. Second, we will focus on institutional opening-up through pilot projects. With greater determination and effort, we aim to align with high-standard international economic and trade rules. We will focus on building "two headquarters bases," "two networks," and "two hubs" and accelerating exploration in areas such as improving property rights protection, market access, fair competition, and social credit management. Third, we will concentrate on reforming and improving institutions in key areas. We will adopt a problem-oriented approach and swiftly address bottlenecks restricting Hainan's high-quality development. For example, to improve the business environment, we will strengthen the concept of "integrated government" and effectively solve problems in market access, resource acquisition, fair law enforcement, and the protection of rights and interests. This will provide companies with confidence and accelerate the development of a business environment based on the rule of law, internationalization and facilitation. Thank you.

National Business Daily:

We've noticed that the wild population of Hainan gibbons has increased to 37, distributed across six families , which has heightened expectations for Hainan's Tropical Rainforest National Park. How does Hainan plan to meet these expectations and further develop the National Ecological Civilization Pilot Zone ? Thank you.

Liu Xiaoming:

Thank you for your question and your thorough research. Indeed, the population of Hainan gibbons, once as low as 11 across three families, has grown to 37 across six families. You have certainly done your homework well. Let me answer your question.

The Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, as one of the first five national parks in China, is recognized by General Secretary Xi Jinping as a "national treasure," and is an epitome of Hainan's efforts to build the National Ecological Civilization Pilot Zone. In Hainan, not only can you enjoy the sun, beaches, and waves, but you can also delve deep into the rainforests to breathe the fresh air and discover its magical allure.

The National Ecological Civilization Pilot Zone is one of the strategic roles designated to Hainan by the central government. In recent years, we have steadfastly prioritized ecological development by "setting scientific objectives, maintaining ecological redlines, serving as a model, and exploring new paths" to actively advance the development of the pilot zone.

First, we have established clear scientific objectives. We aim to achieve nationally leading standards in environmental quality and ecological conservation, making Hainan a prominent showcase of the practices and achievements of Xi Jinping Thought on Eco-Civilization to the world.

Second, we have been upholding strict ecological redlines. We actively engage in initiatives to protect our blue skies, clear waters, and clean lands, rigorously addressing any issues to ensure continuous improvement in our environmental conditions. Last year, for example, we achieved a 99.5% rate of good or excellent air quality days, a PM2.5 level of 12 micrograms per cubic meter, and 95.9% of our provincial surface waters were rated as good or excellent.

Third, we aim to serve as a model. This involves the six landmark projects that have already yielded significant results. For instance, we are actively building Hainan into a clean energy island and promoting the adoption of clean energy vehicles. Hainan has the country's highest adoption rate of clean energy vehicles, with one out of every two new vehicles fueled by clean energy. Moreover, the Boao near-zero carbon demonstration zone is now operational and is striving to develop globally recognized "Boao Standards."

Fourth, we are exploring new paths to convert ecological advantages into developmental and competitive advantages. For example, a bamboo fungus cultivation project in Baisha county has implemented the Gross Ecosystem Product (GEP) accounting method to evaluate its ecosystem, product and cultural research values. This project received a 500,000 yuan loan without collateral, encouraging businesses to engage in transformative environmental practices and ensuring local communities benefit from the ecological environment. This approach promotes both a high level of environmental protection and high-quality economic and social development.

We fully understand that Hainan belongs not just to its local residents, but also to the entire Chinese population. We will make greater efforts to develop a high-quality National Ecological Civilization Pilot Zone, strive to pioneer a beautiful China, safeguard our national garden throughout all seasons, and better fulfill the people's deep affection and expectations! Thank you!

Sansha Satellite TV:

Hainan's foreign trade has shown strong momentum in recent years, with private enterprises becoming the main force behind this expansion. Could you elaborate on the measures Hainan is taking to promote the development of the private economy? Thank you.

Chen Jiyang:

The private economy in Hainan can be summarized by the figures "8-6-9-9-9." To date, Hainan is home to 3.8 million private businesses, which contribute over 80% of the province's tax revenue, nearly 60% of its GDP, and about 90% of employment opportunities, among which 90% are high-tech enterprises. Private businesses account for 97% of all business entities in the province, underscoring that the private sector is an indispensable force in the construction of the Hainan FTP and a focal point in improving Hainan's business environment.

Hainan is committed to unswervingly consolidating and developing the public sector and unswervingly encouraging, supporting and guiding the development of the non-public sector . We are dedicated to creating a favorable environment for the private sector by improving the system of fair competition, treating all types of business entities equitably, and enhancing support for the private economy and private businesses. Our main efforts are concentrated in the following three areas:

First, we are strengthening policy guidance. We have developed 26 specific measures to support the development of the private economy, focusing on six aspects including enhancing the confidence of private enterprises. These measures include integrating support and encouragement indicators for the private economy into the economic and social development plans at all levels across the province, as well as into comprehensive performance assessments of high-quality development at the municipal and county levels .

Second, we are improving our institutional framework. We have meticulously implemented the Regulations of Hainan Free Trade Port on Fair Competition , the country's first local regulation on fair competition, and continuously conducted screenings and cleanups of explicit and implicit barriers to market access. We have introduced a series of machine-assisted reforms, such as machine-assisted planning and bidding processes, ensuring that private economic entities can compete on an equal footing. Taking the machine-assisted bidding system as an example, we have innovatively implemented a fully digital transaction process for bidding and government procurement. As of the end of 2023, these transactions amounted to 15.52 billion yuan. Among the 276 bidding sections completed last year, the number of participating bidding entities per unit section increased by 12.4 times. In the past, these numbers were often in single digits; now, they generally reach double digits, and in some bidding sections have reached triple digits, indicating a rapid increase in the participation of private economic entities.

Third, we have enhanced service efficiency. The private sector is an important target of our enterprise services. Last year, the province embarked on a comprehensive survey and service campaign for enterprises above the designated size, delivering policies, services, and solutions to enterprises, with private businesses accounting for 38% of the total. This year, we will continue to carry out special service actions targeting 10,000 enterprises, with private enterprises expected to account for nearly 90%. Thank you.

Guangming Daily:

Recently, Hainan province unveiled a series of key talent policies, including the Measures for Comprehensively Attracting, Cultivating, and Utilizing Talent in Hainan FTP. These policies represent a comprehensive optimization and enhancement of existing frameworks. Could you please elaborate on the province's achievements in attracting, cultivating, and utilizing talent in recent years, and also share your plan for the future?

Liu Xiaoming:

Thank you for your question. Hainan province has steadfastly adhered to the principle that talent is the primary resource. We have coordinated the implementation of the One Million Talent Recruitment Action Plan of Hainan Province and the "South China Sea Series" talent training initiative, creating a conducive environment for both living and professional growth, thus cultivating a fertile ground for talent development. Over the past five years, Hainan has successfully attracted nearly 700,000 talents from diverse backgrounds.

Looking ahead, we aim to further enhance the integrated development of education, science, technology and talent. We will continuously refine our policies to support talent development, striving to create a vibrant environment where talent from all corners of the globe converges to jointly build the FTP . To this end, we will deploy "five strategic cards":

First, we will play the card for "talent attraction and cultivation." We aim to attract top talent more frequently and effectively. For instance, teams selected for the Hainan Provincial Excellent Talent Team may receive up to 30 million yuan in funding. Simultaneously, we are dedicated to vigorously developing local talents and accelerating the implementation of the South China Sea Talent Development Plan in conjunction with the "Hainan Merchant" training program.

Second, we will play the card for "platform construction." With the operation of Yazhou Bay National Laboratory , the Hainan Deep-Sea Technology Innovation Center , and the imminent commissioning of the commercial space launch site, Hainan province has attracted a string of world-class scientific and technological platforms. These provide the province with world-class research facilities and an entrepreneurial environment, offering a broad stage for talent development. Furthermore, these platforms facilitate the development of new quality productive forces and their important practice bases in light of Hainan's actual conditions.

Third, we will play the card for "reforms." We will enhance the talent evaluation system, placing greater emphasis on innovative value, ability, and contribution. We will explore reforms in the property rights system for scientific and technological achievements, alongside comprehensive intellectual property rights protection. Additionally, we will establish a system that balances the free exploration of scientific research talents with organized scientific research, enabling talents to freely showcase their abilities within the province.

Fourth, we will play the card for "opening-up." We will introduce more convenient and open policies regarding foreigners' entry, exit, and work permits to support international scientific and technological exchanges and cooperation. Hainan province, for instance, boasts a visa-free entry policy for citizens of 59 countries and has attracted foreign talents from over 100 countries and regions to reside and work within the province.

Fifth, we will play the card for "services." We will continuously enhance public services, ensuring that talent of all kinds can work comfortably, happily, and with dedication in the province. For example, to address the housing needs of talents, we will vigorously develop affordable housing options. These options will allow them to purchase properties at prices that do not exceed 10 times their annual family income or 60% of the previous year's average commercial housing sales price. Additionally, talents in different categories are eligible for corresponding housing subsidies. We also issue Tianya Elite Cards , which grant high-level talents access to premium services in areas such as children's education, healthcare and transportation.

Today, I extend a heartfelt invitation to outstanding Chinese and foreign talents, as well as graduating students. We eagerly anticipate and welcome you to choose Hainan province, integrate with our community, and contribute to its development. Let us work together to build the Hainan FTP, inspire our youth, and realize our dreams. Thank you!

Xing Huina:

That concludes today's press conference. Thank you to the four speakers and all the members of the media for your participation. Goodbye.

Translated and edited by Wang Qian, Xu Xiaoxuan, Liu Jianing, Liu Sitong, Zhang Rui, Zhou Jing, Li Huiru, Zhang Tingting, Zhang Junmian, Liu Caiyi, Wang Wei, Yan Bin, Huang Shan, Yan Xiaoqing, Liu Qiang, Guo Yiming, Yuan Fang, Wang Ziteng, Li Xiao, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.