In February 2025, Hainan’s Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone achieved a groundbreaking milestone by overseeing China’s first temporary importation and application of a special medical formula food. This significant accomplishment underscores Hainan’s rising leadership in medical innovation and its commitment to international healthcare collaboration.
This breakthrough comes on the heels of provisional regulations approved on December 30, 2024. These regulations permit designated medical institutions within the pilot zone to import limited quantities of specialized medical foods, full-nutrition medical products for rare diseases, and dietary supplements that are legally marketed overseas.
Established in 2013, the Boao Lecheng pilot zone has been pivotal in transforming China’s healthcare landscape. By leveraging special policies, the zone fast-tracks the use of internationally licensed pharmaceuticals and medical devices that are not yet available domestically, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.
China has been implementing progressive policies in Hainan to attract global medical enterprises and enhance healthcare accessibility. On November 29, 2024, the country announced plans to permit the establishment of wholly foreign-owned hospitals in major cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hainan Province. This initiative aims to strengthen international medical collaboration and expand healthcare services across the region.
Hainan’s flexible Free Trade Port policies have further fueled innovation by attracting global healthcare enterprises, accelerating advancements, and improving access to state-of-the-art treatments. The province’s progress aligns closely with China’s “Healthy China 2030” blueprint, which emphasizes healthcare innovation, technological advancement, and international cooperation.
Aligned with the 2025 Boao Forum for Asia’s key theme, “Building Trust and Promoting Cooperation in a Fast-Changing World,” Hainan’s efforts have reinforced its role as a hub for global medical collaboration. The upcoming Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference, scheduled from March 25 to 28 in Boao, will further highlight the region’s influence in driving healthcare innovation and fostering international partnerships.
As Hainan continues to streamline approval processes, expand medical offerings, and enhance patient care, it solidifies its position as a key player in global healthcare development, paving the way for a healthier future.
