HAINAN, CHINA -- The World Free Zones Organization concluded its 11th Annual World Congress in Hainan, hosted from October 10-12. The event attracted more than 1,200 participants from 70 countries, along with 16 high-level ministerial delegations and representatives of international economic and trade organisations.

The final day featured the Annual General Assembly meeting, during which a set of strategic resolutions aimed at enhancing the organisation’s operational framework and strengthening its global network of free zones was adopted. Elections were also held for the World FZO Board of Directors for a new term.

The closing ceremony was attended by Liu Xiaoming, Governor of Hainan Province, alongside H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Chairman of the World FZO, and a number of senior officials and participants from various countries.

Liu Xiaoming extended his profound appreciation for selecting Hainan to host this prominent international event, noting that the World FZO’s World Congress is an important platform for the exchange of global expertise in the development of free zones and the promotion of international economic integration.

H.E. Dr. Al Zarooni, emphasized that this year’s congress represented a pivotal milestone in the organisation’s journey and a launchpad for a new phase of international cooperation in the free zones sector.

Dr. Mohammed said: “Free zones have proven that they are no longer just trade hubs, but integrated economic ecosystems that contribute to job creation, enable economic diversification, and enhance the resilience of global supply chains.”

One of the highlights of the third day was the inauguration of the First Comprehensive Free Trade Zone Development International Forum in China, featuring high-level participation from leaders and representatives of free zones and economic authorities worldwide.

The keynote speeches highlighted the pioneering Chinese experience in developing comprehensive economic zones and their impact on enhancing economic integration under the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as reviewing China’s economic openness policies and the role of free zones in driving international trade and investment.

At the conclusion of World FZO’s 11th Annual World Congress, His Excellency Miguel Lecaro, Ambassador of the Republic of Panama to China, received the flag from H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, signifying Panama’s role as the host of the 12th Annual World Congress, scheduled for July 2026.