Eudes Fabre Appointed General Manager of Hainan Tourism Investment Duty Free, Steering Expansion in Sanya, Hong Kong, and Japan’s Luxury Retail Markets – Here’s What You Need to Know About the Future

Published on December 2, 2025

Hainan Tourism Investment Duty Free Co., Ltd. (HTDF) has appointed Eudes Fabre as its new General Manager, a move expected to drive the company’s ambitious growth plans in the luxury retail sector. Fabre, who brings two decades of experience in the global luxury, travel retail, and duty-free industries, is tasked with reinforcing HTDF’s position as a leading player in Hainan’s dynamic market.

Expertise Shaping HTDF’s Future Growth

Fabre’s extensive background includes significant leadership roles at China Duty Free Group and Lagardere Travel Retail, where he honed his expertise in consumer trends, brand development, and operational strategies. His career has been marked by successful large-scale projects and his deep understanding of the Asian travel retail landscape, which will be invaluable as HTDF looks to capitalize on Hainan’s Free Trade Port developments.

A Key Appointment for Hainan’s Growing Duty-Free Market

The appointment of Fabre comes at a time when Hainan is rapidly emerging as a premier tourist destination, especially for duty-free shopping. HTDF, which operates the flagship HTDF Shopping Complex in Sanya, is set to play a central role in this transformation. Under Fabre’s leadership, the company will focus on enhancing customer experience, strengthening brand partnerships, and expanding its market share in the offshore duty-free sector.

Hainan’s Strategic Role in the Global Duty-Free Market

Hainan has increasingly become a focal point for luxury tourism and shopping, particularly with the completion of the Hainan Free Trade Port by the end of 2025. This initiative is set to offer substantial investment opportunities for global retailers, making the island an attractive destination for both international brands and travelers alike. HTDF’s upcoming initiatives aim to meet the growing demand for luxury goods and create a seamless shopping experience for tourists.

Fabre’s Vision for HTDF

Fabre’s strategy for HTDF involves a comprehensive renewal and upgrade program. This includes an evolution in merchandising to focus on direct sourcing, significant investments in human resource development, and a robust capital investment plan. These measures aim to streamline HTDF’s operations and attract more high-end brands to the duty-free market.

As a leader with a proven track record of enhancing brand equity and profitability in travel retail, Fabre is committed to making HTDF a benchmark for luxury retail and customer service. His leadership will also focus on integrating digital technologies to further elevate HTDF’s omnichannel experience, enhancing both online and offline customer journeys.

How This Appointment Impacts Travelers

The developments within HTDF under Fabre’s leadership will have a direct impact on travelers, particularly those visiting Hainan for luxury shopping experiences. As the duty-free market continues to grow, travelers will benefit from an enhanced shopping environment that combines personalized service, premium brands, and competitive pricing. The investment in retail technologies will also lead to smoother, more efficient shopping experiences, making it an appealing destination for tourists seeking luxury goods at duty-free prices.

For travelers planning to visit Hainan, here are some key travel tips:

• Plan Your Visit: With the expansion of duty-free offerings, tourists can take advantage of exclusive promotions and high-end brands available at HTDF malls in Sanya.
• Explore New Offerings: Keep an eye on new retail experiences that HTDF is introducing, from luxury goods to personalized services aimed at enhancing your shopping experience.
• Optimize Shopping Time: The investment in digital technologies means travelers can also expect more efficient checkout systems, as well as online platforms to pre-order luxury items.

Hainan’s Role in Global Luxury Tourism

Hainan’s rise as a leading global duty-free shopping hub presents new opportunities for both the tourism and retail sectors. As HTDF expands its operations, Hainan’s allure as a top destination for luxury shopping continues to grow, attracting affluent travelers from around the world. This development is an essential part of Hainan’s broader vision to become a world-class leisure and investment destination.