Showcase event

The Haikou Boat Show, a support event of the China International Consumer Products Expo since 2021, has also played a major role in driving the yacht economy in Hainan.

The exhibition aims to not only showcase vessels and businesses, but also offer a space to foster cross-industry growth and advance Hainan's yacht sector.

"Featuring sleek and innovative designs, the showcased yachts offer a fusion of novel features and experiences," Du Hongyu said while visiting the consumer expo.

This year's Haikou Boat Show was held from April 13 to 18. Visitor turnout on April 15 was double that of the previous year, underscoring the event's growing appeal and popularity.

Wang Min, chairman of the Haikou Tourism and Culture Group, said this year's focus on high-quality and new products, had enhanced the exhibition's appeal. A total of 250 yachts were featured at the event, a 14 percent increase from the previous year. The vessels included 120 from 80 international companies.

At a seminar on development of the yacht industry held during the expo, experts and observers highlighted China's huge consumption potential in the sector.

Liao Minsheng, a maritime economy expert and vice president of Hainan Tropical Ocean University, said as people's living standards rise, the consumer base for yacht tourism is gradually expanding. The yacht tourism market has been experiencing rapid growth in recent years, emerging as a new hot spot for consumer spending, as exemplified by Sanya's success, Liao added.

chenbowen@chinadaily.com.cn