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."