Sanya attracts global talent with supportive policies, abundant opportunities

In just six years, Sanya's Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City (YZBSTC) has attracted 571 international professionals from over 30 countries, transforming into a thriving hub for overseas talent. As China's national offshore innovation and entrepreneurship base, the zone offers unparalleled opportunities that continue to draw global attention. 

Professor Felix Dapare Dakora is a Ghanaian agronomist and a foreign academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering. Leading groundbreaking research at the National Nanfan Research Institute, Dakora focuses on developing high-yield soybean varieties for Africa. "The research facilities here are world-class," says Dakora, who has established an international seed resource exchange center while diligently learning Mandarin to better collaborate with local scientists. 

Dakela (R) exchanges ideas with Han Tianfu, a Chinese soybean breeding expert. [Photo/Hainan Daily] 

Charlotte, a Belgian investment manager, exemplifies Sanya's successful international recruitment strategy. After transitioning from tourism to becoming the zone's international business development director, she has facilitated the entry of 15 foreign enterprises in two years. "Our one-stop service center processes work permits in under an hour, and the 59-country visa-free policy makes business travel seamless," said Charlotte, who recently helped an Italian biotech firm establish its Asia-Pacific headquarters.

Charlotte is hard at work. [Photo/Hainan Daily]

The success stories extend to young entrepreneurs like Khan from Pakistan. Utilizing Sanya's free office spaces and tax incentives, he launched an import-export business within months. "The startup support package included everything from legal consultation to market research," Khan said, highlighting how the zone's international incubator helped him connect with partners across the Middle East. 

With comprehensive support covering housing subsidies, international schools, and cutting-edge research facilities, YZBSTC has created an ecosystem where global talent can innovate and thrive. As Hainan Free Trade Port picks up steam, Sanya is seeking both career growth and quality tropical living.