Sanya's offshore duty-free sales hit 133b yuan

Tourists pick up duty-free goods in Sanya International Duty Free City. [Photo/IC]

This year marks the 12th anniversary of Hainan's offshore duty-free shopping policy. Sanya's accumulated offshore duty-free sales now sit at 133.19 billion yuan ($19.24 billion), with a consumer throughput of 20.24 million, and more than 164 million items purchased, according to Sanya Customs.

After the third China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), Sanya's duty-free stores not only attract more consumers, but also attract the attention of many internationally renowned brands.

On April 23, the famous Swiss watch brand, Longines, which has been participating in the CICPE for three consecutive years, unveiled an exhibition at Sanya International Duty Free City, showcasing multiple Pioneer series watches.

Sanya International Duty Free City is currently the most high-end tourism and shopping destination for watch brands in Hainan, boasting over 60 mainstream watch brands.

Chang Zhujun, executive vice general manager of China Duty Free Group (CDFG), stated that CDFG is optimistic about Hainan's development and has formed a layout of six stores in three places, including Haikou, Sanya, and Qionghai. In the future, CDFG will continue to expand its market layout in Hainan.

As the May Day holiday approaches, offshore duty-free locations will once again experience a sales peak. Multiple duty-free stores have already launched discounts and promotional activities in preparation for the influx of consumers.