The first batch of zero-tariff goods have smoothly entered and exited the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP), the world's largest FTP by area, after it started the island-wide special customs operations on Thursday.
China on Thursday launched island-wide special customs operations in the Hainan FTP, allowing freer entry of overseas goods, expanded zero-tariff coverage and more business-friendly measures.
This marks a landmark initiative in China's unwavering commitment to expanding high-standard opening-up and advancing the development of an open world economy.
Following the rollout, Hainan will adopt a two-tier customs supervision model: freer access at the first line, regulated access at the second line, and free flow within the island.
At Yangpu Port in Danzhou City, a cargo ship carrying 179,000 tons of petrochemical raw materials and auxiliary materials was among the first batch of zero-tariff imported goods since the port's special customs operations began.
Customs expedited inspection and clearance, saving nearly four hours in processing time.
"To ensure swift clearance for the first batch of goods after island-wide special customs operations, we have carried out high-frequency coordination, studying and arranging import plans in advance, and coming up with a service mechanism of tailored plans for different goods to guarantee a smooth and orderly island-wide special customs operations," said Ai Tao, director of the Comprehensive Operations Division under Yangpu Customs.
Following the special customs operations, the list of tariff-free items in Hainan will expand to around 6,600, significantly broadening the scope of beneficiaries.
At Sanya Phoenix International Airport's cargo terminal, the first batch of "zero-tariff" goods imported by air completed customs clearance.
A set of imported scientific research equipment valued at one million yuan (about 142,000 U.S. dollars) now saves the enterprises over 180,000 yuan (about 25,556 U.S. dollars) in costs thanks to the zero-tariff policy.
"In the coming month, we plan to import several more sets of equipment. The expanded coverage of the zero-tariff policy following the island-wide special customs operations enables our enterprises to effectively lower procurement costs, channel more funds into scientific research and production, and further stimulate corporate innovation vitality," said Zhou Guowei, deputy director of Sanya Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City Administration.
Beyond zero tariffs, the exemption policy for domestic sales of products with added value after processing is further optimized on the basis of previous pilot programs.
The policy broadens the scope of imported materials and significantly lowers eligibility thresholds.
Products imported to and processed in Hainan, whose added value exceeds 30 percent after domestic processing, are exempt from taxes when entering the rest of China.
At the cargo inspection areas of second-line ports Xinhai and Nangang in the provincial capital Haikou City, the first batch of vehicles loaded with goods quailed for this policy sequentially passed through customs supervision channels, preparing to enter the mainland.
"This is our first batch of goods clearing customs at the second-line port, qualified for tariff exemption on products with 30 percent or higher added value after processing. The shipment is valued at over 880,000 yuan. Establishing operations in the Hainan FTP has enabled us to expand our production scale significantly, and I am highly confident [in our future]," said He Yongshen, president of Hainan Well Lead Medical Co., Ltd.
The island-wide special customs operations mark the beginning of a new phase in Hainan FTP development.
Following the initiative, the FTP will continue expanding open sectors, refining policy frameworks constantly, and striving to establish Hainan as a leading gateway for China's opening-up in the new era.
"We will persistently advance the expansion of foreign investment access, further enhance the freedom and facilitation of foreign investment, and focus on building a modern industrial system with Hainan's distinctive characteristics and advantages. We are committed to developing the Hainan FTP into a pivotal hub connecting domestic and international economic flows," said Jiang Hong, deputy director of Hainan Provincial Development and Reform Commission.
Hainan FTP begins island-wide special customs operations
