Driven by a fresh wave of policy incentives and the recently launched island-wide special customs operations, the Hainan Free Trade Port is rapidly evolving into a high-quality hub for global companies and talents.

As the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) takes shape, the island is moving beyond its role as a tourism destination to become a strategic stepping stone for international companies looking to penetrate the vast Chinese market.

The China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) serves as the primary window into this transformation.

Ireland served as the guest country of honor at the 4th expo, showcasing over 100 distinct products from 17 representative brands this year.

Highlighting Ireland's participation, Derek Lambe, economic counselor at the Embassy of Ireland in China, noted that Irish companies are drawn to the platform's immense value.

"We're back again this year and a lot of the Irish companies who are here have come back again and again. And that's because we see so much potential and so much value at the Hainan expo," Derek said, adding that, "Hainan serves as a stepping stone for Irish companies looking to enter the wider Chinese market."