The World Free Zones Organization (World FZO) has successfully concluded its 11th Annual World Congress, held in Hainan from 10 to 12 October. The high-profile event welcomed more than 1,200 participants representing 70 countries, including 16 ministerial delegations and several international trade and economic organisations.
The final day saw the convening of the organisation’s Annual General Assembly, where members adopted a series of strategic resolutions designed to enhance World FZO’s operational efficiency and reinforce its global network of free zones. Elections were also conducted to appoint a new Board of Directors for the coming 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, as well as senior officials and representatives from across the globe.
Liu Xiaoming expressed his gratitude for choosing Hainan as the venue for this major international gathering, highlighting that the World FZO’s annual congress serves as a vital platform for sharing expertise in free zone development and promoting global economic integration.
H.E. Dr Al Zarooni noted that this year’s congress marked a significant turning point in the organisation’s history and a foundation for a new era of international cooperation within the free zones sector.
Dr Mohammed stated: “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.”
Among the highlights of the third and final day was the inauguration of the First Comprehensive Free Trade Zone Development International Forum in China. The forum brought together senior leaders, policymakers, and representatives from free zones and economic authorities around the world.
Keynote addresses spotlighted China’s pioneering approach to developing comprehensive economic zones and their contribution to regional and global economic integration under the Belt and Road Initiative. Speakers also explored China’s open economic policies and the strategic role of free zones in facilitating international trade and investment.
In closing, H.E. Dr Mohammed Al Zarooni officially handed over the World FZO flag to His Excellency Miguel Lecaro, Ambassador of the Republic of Panama to China, symbolising Panama’s selection as host of the 12th Annual World Congress, set to take place in July 2026.