Hainan – China
A delegation from the Arab Federation for Digital Economy (AFDE), led by H.E. Dr. Ali Mohammed Al Khouri, Advisor to the Arab Economic Unity Council and Chairman of AFDE, held an extensive meeting at the headquarters of the Hainan Provincial Government, attended by senior officials from government departments and investment authorities in the province, as part of the Federation’s China tour.
The meeting focused on exploring cooperation in digital economy, technological innovation, smart agriculture, digital tourism, and free trade. The Chinese side highlighted that Hainan Province possesses unique advantages that make it an ideal platform for digital investment cooperation between the Arab world and China, thanks to its strategic location and the competitive benefits offered by the free trade zone, including tax incentives, streamlined procedures, and support for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Multiple Areas of Cooperation
The discussion included Hainan’s vision to develop itself as a digital financial hub connecting Middle Eastern and Asian markets, through innovative financing solutions such as joint investment funds and asset-based financing mechanisms. Officials noted that this approach aligns with the priorities of AFDE in supporting the establishment of advanced digital financial ecosystems, facilitating Arab companies’ entry into the Chinese market, and opening new opportunities in cross-border trade.
The talks also covered opportunities to attract Arab startups in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, enabling them to benefit from Hainan’s technology clusters and innovation incubators to test their products and services in a fully integrated operational environment.
Commendation of the Arab Vision and UAE Role
In his remarks, H.E. Dr. Ali Mohammed Al Khouri emphasized that the meeting represents a foundational step toward building a broad Arab–Chinese partnership in digital economy and innovation. He noted that the Arab Digital Economy Vision, supported and endorsed by the United Arab Emirates, has become a strategic platform that inspires international cooperation and provides practical solutions for the future global economy. He added that Hainan Province, with its advanced experimental environment, flexible financial and legislative incentives, is well-positioned to serve as a model for integrating the digital economy, smart cities, and vital productive sectors.
