The Hainan Free Trade Port International Talent Club is launched in Hainan Talent Group, a subsidiary of Hainan Holdings, on July 11. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Hainan launched its International Talent Club on Friday, aiming to attract skilled foreign professionals as the island province advances toward independent customs operations under its Free Trade Port policy.

Operated by the Hainan Talent Group, a subsidiary of Hainan Holdings, the club serves as a one-stop service hub to connect talent with industries, promote overseas opportunities, and ease daily life for expats in Hainan.

"We will co-build a shared platform with a global atmosphere, diverse cultures, innovation, livability and quality services," said Lin Guangming, the club's honorary chairman and chief planner of the administration committee of Yangpu Economic Development Zone.

Foreign professionals welcomed the initiative. Television presenter Iain Inglis from the United Kingdom, a long-term resident in Hainan, called it "a clear commitment by Hainan to bridge cultural gaps and streamline services for expatriates".

"Initiatives like this will significantly boost Hainan's attractiveness by humanising the Hainan Free Trade Port brand," Inglis said. "Beyond policies, the club will foster a sense of belonging and showcase openness as independent customs operations near. It's a bold step toward making Hainan a true island of talent."

The Hainan Free Trade Port International Talent Club is launched in Hainan Talent Group, a subsidiary of Hainan Holdings, on July 11. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

He added that the platform could be vital for cultural integration and career development, especially through connections with employers and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Inglis suggested further efforts, including language support like Mandarin classes for professionals, family-friendly services such as international school liaisons, and legal workshops to clarify Hainan's policies for foreigners.

He also highlighted opportunities for industry-specific networking in tech, finance, or healthcare, lifestyle perks like cultural venue discounts, and community activities such as sports leagues or festivals.

"For long-term expats, its success will hinge on practical execution, balancing lofty goals with day-to-day conveniences. If done right, it could set a benchmark for other Chinese regions aiming to attract global professionals," Inglis said.

The launch coincides with Hainan's push to become a global talent hub ahead of its Free Trade Port achieving independent customs operations. Following the ceremony, participants from local talent centers and international organizations discussed leveraging the club's resources.