Hainan – China
The Arab Federation for Digital Economy (AFDE) held a high-level meeting with H.E. Feng Fei, Governor of Hainan Province, and several senior government officials and economic and technological institutions in the province. During the meeting, both sides agreed on a set of strategic cooperation areas. Participants included representatives from key government departments, such as the Department of Industry and Information Technology, the Big Data Administration, the Internet Information Office, as well as officials from other governmental sectors.
New Regional Office in Sanya
The agreement includes the proposal to establish a regional office of the Federation in Sanya, serving as a hub for bilateral cooperation. The office will facilitate Arab companies’ entry into Hainan’s investment environment and support Chinese companies seeking to expand into Arab markets, coordinating with local institutions such as the Sanya Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City.
Leveraging Hainan’s Advanced Regulatory Environment
Both sides emphasized that policies related to the Hainan Free Trade Port, such as tax exemptions and free movement of capital, provide opportunities to develop joint projects between the Arab world and China. These projects include critical areas such as creating more stable digital financial tools to support trade and investment, establishing advanced data centers to securely store information and operate digital services, and enabling organized and safe information exchange, opening new horizons for digital cooperation and enhancing the global standing of both Arab and Chinese economies.
Collaboration with Hainan–Chengmai Software Cluster
The parties agreed to open channels of cooperation between Arab software companies and their counterparts in the Hainan–Chengmai Software Cluster, facilitating the exchange of expertise and development of sustainable, eco-friendly digital solutions aligned with green development priorities in both the Arab world and China.
Digital Events and Joint Investment Initiatives
The meeting also discussed organizing joint international events to exchange experiences and showcase successful initiatives, providing opportunities for companies and stakeholders from both sides to connect and build practical partnerships, thereby supporting economic and technological cooperation in line with sustainable development goals.
Institutional Coordination and Regulatory Bridges
Both parties agreed to expand cooperation with the Big Data Administration, the Internet Information Office, and the Department of Industry and Information Technology in Hainan to develop joint mechanisms that facilitate work in the digital sector and create greater opportunities for knowledge and expertise exchange.
Official Statements
H.E. Dr. Ali Mohammed Al Khouri, Chairman of the Arab Federation for Digital Economy, said:
“Hainan Province represents a unique model of regulatory and technological innovation. Our partnership with it is not merely a commercial agreement but a strategic step toward building a shared Arab–Chinese digital ecosystem.”
For his part, H.E. Feng Fei, Governor of Hainan Province, welcomed the collaboration, stating:
“The Arab world is a natural partner for Hainan Free Trade Port, and we are committed to providing a supportive and stimulating environment for companies seeking innovation and cross-border growth.”
He also praised the Arab Digital Economy Vision led by AFDE, appreciating the UAE’s pioneering role in supporting this vision and implementing strategic initiatives that contribute to building an integrated digital economy linking the Arab region to the global economy.
Strategic Expansion in China
This understanding is part of AFDE’s efforts to expand its presence in China following the opening of its office in Hong Kong. It reflects the Arab world’s position as a key partner in the global digital economy and contributes to transforming the Arab Digital Economy Vision into an effective platform for international cooperation and the establishment of impactful strategic partnerships.
