This year’s Sanya Boat Festival was held from April 15-18 as part of the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), marking the first major international yacht event following the implementation of Hainan Free Trade Port customs operations.

With the tagline ‘Window of China, Voyage to the Future’, the event featured over 90 companies and around 200 vessels including 24 global and China premieres. Strong international participation among exhibitors was complemented by buyers and industry professionals from Europe, Southeast Asia and the Middle East attending in record numbers.

Market activity was evident even before the official opening, with high-value yacht transactions already completed, reflecting strong confidence in both the Free Trade Port policies and Sanya’s growing role in the yachting sector. Supporting events, including a large-scale drone light show and lifestyle activities, further enhanced public engagement and showcased the city’s evolving marine culture.

Alongside the exhibition, the Sanya Yacht Industry Seminar and the launch of a new industry association brought together key stakeholders from manufacturing, technology and service sectors.

Discussions during the seminar focused on practical industry developments. Companies presented advancements in intelligent navigation systems and digital integration, highlighting China’s transition toward more advanced, system-driven capabilities.

In the field of new energy, the application of aviation-grade battery and energy-management systems in marine environments was identified as a step toward higher safety and efficiency standards.

From an international perspective, speakers noted that while Chinese yacht builders are strengthening their design and manufacturing capabilities, further development of after-sales services and operational standards remains essential for global expansion.

The seminar also addressed the challenges faced by Chinese companies entering overseas markets, including brand recognition, channel development, design capabilities and compliance with international standards, alongside practical approaches such as digital outreach, international collaboration and localised service networks.

During the event, a cooperation framework led by the Sanya Yacht Import & Export Trade Association was established, connecting industry organisations across China and overseas to support information exchange, resource integration and coordinated development.

The ‘Sanya Marine Guide’ was also introduced, providing a structured overview of local marina infrastructure, services, policy environment and industry resources to support both domestic and international stakeholders.

With the support of Hainan Free Trade Port policies, including zero import tariffs and streamlined trade procedures, Sanya is positioning itself as a key outbound hub for China’s yacht industry, offering an integrated platform for exhibition, trade, services and global market access.

sanyayachtglobal.com