The tropical island of Hainan is found at the southernmost tip of China. Roughly the size of Belgium, its lush forests, vibrant biodiversity, and monsoon rains form a unique part of China’s natural heritage.

Totalling one-third of China’s rainforests, Hainan is a hotspot for fauna and flora with thousands of species of plants and animals living there, including rare endemic species of monkeys, deer, and the Asian bear. The natural wealth of this unique ecosystem is preserved in one of China’s first and largest national parks.

In addition to its green heritage, the tropical island also intends to become a world-class pioneer in the field of the blue economy, i.e. the sustainable development and management of ocean resources.

Hainan already benefits from its white beaches and clear waters through tourism, but new projects are coming to life from coastal carbon capture projects and the restoration and protection of maritime ecosystems to the development of sustainable fisheries. Thus, the island is turning an emerging concept into vibrant economic opportunities.

With a population of over 10 million, Hainan is also home to an ancient culture distinct from the mainland.

The Li people have thrived on the island for thousands of years. To the present day, they have maintained their traditions, notably a strong practice of gender equality, atypical architectural constructions, or folk dress and music, which attract millions of tourists from the Chinese mainland and beyond every year. national parks.

More than 2000 years ago, Hainan’s city of Sanya was known as “the end of the Earth”. Yet, enjoying a warm climate all year round, Sanya is today famous for its palm trees and beaches, its luxurious hotels, and for being the home of the largest duty-free shopping mall in the world.

Twin city of Cannes, Blackpool, and Cancún, Sanya is the hotbed of Hainan’s growing tourism industry.