Published by ChinaMNC · Zhangshu

Hainan Free Trade Port: New Trade Facilitation Measures for Foreign Founders

China's Ministry of Commerce and other agencies issued a notice to further liberalize and facilitate trade in Hainan Free Trade Port. This article summarizes the key measures relevant to foreign founders operating or registering a company in China.

Hainan Free Trade Port: New Trade Facilitation Measures for Foreign Founders

In October 2026, China's Ministry of Commerce, the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, and the General Administration of Customs jointly issued a notice to further enhance trade liberalization and facilitation in the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP). The notice, numbered Shang Zi Mao Fa [2026] No. 187, outlines 16 specific measures across goods trade, services trade, and new trade models. For foreign founders considering registering a company in China or already operating in Hainan, these measures may offer new opportunities and simplified procedures.

Key Measures for Goods Trade

Aviation Kerosene and Bonded Warehousing

Aviation kerosene entering Hainan FTP from overseas for storage in independent bonded warehouses and later re-exported will be inspected according to international standards. This aligns inspection with global norms, potentially reducing compliance burdens for companies involved in aviation fuel logistics.

Oil Product Warehouse Integration in Yangpu

In the Yangpu Economic Development Zone, bonded warehouses and export supervision warehouses storing gasoline, kerosene, diesel, fuel oil, and naphtha can be integrated. A new regulatory model—'two types of capacity, total volume approval, classified adjustment, dynamic use'—will be implemented. This flexibility may help oil traders and storage operators optimize inventory management.

LNG Futures Delivery

Once liquefied natural gas (LNG) futures are listed, Hainan FTP will support related delivery warehouse business, allowing bonded delivery to use energy measurement. This could open new hedging and delivery options for energy traders.

Facilitations for Services Trade

Foreign Physicians

Foreign physicians with legal practice rights abroad may be invited, employed, or apply to conduct clinical diagnosis and treatment in Hainan FTP. Their practice license can be valid for up to three years and is renewable upon expiration. This measure facilitates the entry of foreign medical professionals.

Foreign Economic and Technical Exhibitions

Administrative licensing for foreign institutions co-hosting international economic and technical exhibitions will be delegated to the Hainan Provincial Department of Commerce, except for events using names such as 'China', 'Chinese', 'National', or 'State'. Hainan will enact FTP regulations with specific supervisory measures; where inconsistencies with existing administrative regulations arise, procedures under the Hainan FTP Law will apply.

Domestic Trade Credit Insurance

Services for domestic trade credit insurance will be optimized, supporting both domestic and foreign trade enterprises in Hainan FTP to insure domestic trade risks. This aims to strengthen underwriting support for integrated domestic and foreign trade.

Insurance Product Innovation

Focusing on international transportation and bonded maintenance, insurance products will be enriched under controllable risks, with innovative underwriting models for services trade and optimized claims services.

Recognition of Overseas Professional Qualifications

Hainan FTP will dynamically improve its list of recognized overseas professional qualifications and support foreign talents with such qualifications to participate in professional title evaluations. This expands channels for recognizing overseas credentials.

New Trade Models and Business Formats

Bonded Remanufacturing

Products from bonded remanufacturing in Hainan FTP's customs special supervision areas may enter domestic free trade pilot zones, with import duties, import VAT, and consumption tax levied accordingly. Remanufactured products must meet all applicable technical requirements for equivalent new products and relevant regulations, and be prominently labeled as 'remanufactured products'. Advanced remanufacturing technologies for mechanical and electrical products will be promoted.

'Two Ends Outside' Bonded Maintenance

Hainan FTP will expand the catalog of 'two ends outside' bonded maintenance as appropriate. For projects within the nationally permitted catalog, Hainan Province will organize comprehensive assessments and bear primary responsibility. Qualified projects can conduct related business in Hainan FTP.

Economic and Trade Cooperation with Hong Kong

Hainan FTP will deepen economic and trade exchanges and industrial cooperation with Hong Kong, exploring rule alignment and mechanism connectivity, improving cooperation mechanisms focused on trade and investment, and enhancing coordinated development with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Implementation and Risk Management

Relevant units are required to uphold Party leadership, balance development and security, and implement policies effectively. Hainan Province must fulfill its primary responsibility, refine work mechanisms, and establish risk prevention and control systems with full-process supervision to safeguard security bottom lines.

For foreign founders, these measures signal a more open and efficient trade environment in Hainan FTP. Whether you are in logistics, energy, healthcare, exhibition services, or remanufacturing, the new policies may reduce barriers and create new business opportunities. However, careful attention to compliance requirements, especially regarding product standards and licensing, remains essential.

Call to Action: Foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a company in China.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.