Sanya’s special customs zone launch spurred rapid economic growth, tourism surge, and infrastructure upgrades.

Since the December 18 launch of Hainan’s island-wide special customs operations, Sanya has seen rapid transformation driven by surging business and tourism. Airfares nearly doubled, young professionals and business travelers replaced elderly seasonal visitors, and infrastructure improved with new sidewalks, quieter streets, and upgraded public services. Duty-free sales jumped 47.2% in the first week, over 990 new companies registered, and hospitals expanded access to global medical supplies. Real estate and retail sectors boomed as businesses adapted to a wealthier, more diverse clientele, signaling Sanya’s shift toward becoming a global trade and innovation hub.