OANA Delegates Explore Qionghai: A Blend Of Cultural Heritage And Free Trade Port Innovation

Published on December 5, 2025

On December 4, 2025, a significant cultural and developmental excursion was undertaken in Qionghai, a city situated in south China’s Hainan Province. Distinguished foreign guests, who were present for the 57th Executive Board Meeting of the Organization of Asia-Pacific News Agencies (OANA), were graciously received and guided through several sites of profound historical and strategic importance. The expansive visit was meticulously arranged to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the region’s rich cultural history and, concurrently, to provide firsthand observation of the dynamic latest progress being realized within the framework of the Hainan Free Trade Port.

The areas of particular focus included the vital sectors of healthcare and tourism, which are centrally positioned in the strategic development of the area. This focused tour was deemed essential for leaders of the Asia-Pacific media landscape to fully grasp the multifaceted narrative of Hainan‘s transformation, which is currently being driven by ambitious national goals. Key elements of the region’s past, including the enduring legacy of the Red Detachment of Women, were thoughtfully woven into the schedule alongside the observation of forward-looking achievements in the coastal town of Boao.

An Exploration of Revolutionary Fervor and Commemoration

The journey into the deep-seated history of Hainan began with a reverent visit. The first site of exploration was a memorial garden dedicated to the Red Detachment of Women. This female revolutionary squad was a celebrated contingent from the 1930s, and its historical actions are indelibly etched into the national consciousness. The compelling narrative of courage, dedication, and revolutionary spirit, embodied by these women warriors, was brought into sharp focus for the international delegates. The memorial itself was designed to serve as a powerful testament to the tremendous sacrifices made during a pivotal era of national struggle. It was observed that the profound legacy of this group is carefully preserved and regularly recounted, ensuring that the historical memory of their fight is transmitted across generations.

The Enduring Architectural and Cultural Tapestry of Overseas Chinese

Following the historical immersion, the focus of the tour was transitioned toward the exploration of cultural heritage, specifically concerning the influence of the overseas Chinese community. A stop was made in Boao, the noted coastal town within Qionghai, where the Cai Family Residence was visited. This magnificent structure was presented as a paramount representation of Hainan’s unique overseas Chinese residential architecture. The design and construction methodologies employed in the residence’s creation were studied, revealing a sophisticated and beautiful amalgamation of traditional local styles and distinct foreign architectural influences, reflecting the extensive global connections maintained by Hainan natives over centuries.

The architectural features, including the intricate carvings, the layout of the courtyards, and the materials utilized, were carefully observed by the delegates. It was explained that these homes served not merely as dwellings but as tangible records of the success and cultural repatriation of individuals who had traveled abroad for commerce or other ventures before returning to their ancestral home. The very walls and structure of the Cai Family Residence were seen to eloquently tell the story of a community that was both deeply rooted in Hainan and widely connected to the international sphere. This architectural fusion was emphasized as being highly representative of the cosmopolitan, outward-looking nature that has historically characterized the island.

Vision for the Future: Pioneering Progress in the Hainan Free Trade Port

The latter part of the tour was devoted to showcasing the future-oriented development initiatives being carried out under the umbrella of the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP). The delegates were taken to an international innovation medicine exhibition located in Boao, an engagement which provided tangible evidence of the remarkable progress being realized, specifically in the healthcare sector. This visit was crucial for illustrating how the Hainan Free Trade Port is not simply an economic policy but a comprehensive framework designed to cultivate high-end industries and attract global talent and investment.

The exhibition highlighted the latest breakthroughs in medical technologies, pharmaceutical research, and innovative treatment protocols that are being pioneered or fast-tracked within the specialized zones of the FTP. The unique, preferential policies governing the Hainan Free Trade Port, which permit the early use of international and unapproved drugs and medical devices, were detailed to the media professionals. It was shown how these policies are transforming the region into a global center for medical tourism and patient care, positioning Qionghai as a key component of this advanced medical ecosystem. The establishment of this medical cluster was clearly understood to be a direct consequence of the strategic decision to prioritize human capital and life sciences innovation.

Furthermore, the expansion of the tourism sector was a central theme of the presentation on FTP progress. The strategy of developing Hainan into an internationally recognized destination was discussed, with emphasis placed on high-quality, sustainable, and diversified tourism offerings. This shift involves moving beyond traditional beach resorts to incorporate cultural heritage tourism, exemplified by the earlier visit to the Cai Family Residence, as well as high-end medical and wellness tourism, directly correlating with the innovation medicine exhibition. The substantial policy support for duty-free shopping, facilitated visa access, and improved infrastructure were explained as foundational elements supporting this exponential growth.