CHINA. Swire Properties and CDF Investment & Development Co, a wholly owned subsidiary of China Tourism Group Duty Free Corporation, are collaborating on a major retail development in Haitang Bay, Sanya.
The 210,000sq m project, officially named CDF Taikoo Li Sanya, is expected to open in phases from later this year.
The project forms Phase III of the cdf Sanya International Duty Free Shopping Complex and will be directly connected to the existing Phases I and II.
Together, the three phases will create an integrated retail and leisure destination, combining duty-free and duty-paid shopping with dining, arts, culture and wellness experiences.
The development, a first of its kind for Swire, is situated close to Haitang Bay’s main commercial centres, five-star hotels and a national health and wellness hub.
Designed around a ‘Water Horizon’ concept, CDF Taikoo Li Sanya draws inspiration from the heritage of local Tanka fishing villages and Hainan’s historic salt flats. The open-lane retail environment will incorporate tropical landscaping and outdoor leisure spaces.
Swire Properties Chief Executive Officer, Chinese Mainland David Poraj-Wilczynski said: “As our first resort-style Taikoo Li development, this project exemplifies our drive for creative transformation and placemaking as well as our dedication to shaping destinations that celebrate, connect and inspire the unique character of each city in which we operate.
“We see remarkable promise in Sanya and the Hainan Free Trade Port – not just as a tourism hub but as a beacon for sustainable, world-class urban lifestyle and we are excited to be part of this dynamic wave of growth and innovation.”
China Tourism Group Duty Free Deputy General Manager Michelle Sun said, “CDF Taikoo Li Sanya will stand as a world-class retail tourism landmark, embodying the shared strategic vision of CTG Duty Free and Swire Properties.
“This partnership brings world-class standards to the Hainan Free Trade Port, and advances Sanya’s growth as an international tourist destination.
“With its upscale retail positioning, innovative business model, and carefully curated trade mix, the project will complement the existing Phases I and II of the cdf Sanya International Duty Free Shopping Complex.
“It will create a balanced ecosystem of duty-free and duty-paid retail that offers consumers a fully upgraded retail and resort experience.”
“CDF Taikoo Li Sanya introduces a brand new, resort-orientated expression of the Taikoo Li brand,” added CDF Taikoo Li Sanya General Manager Alan Lo. “This visionary project blends Sanya’s vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty with Taikoo Li’s iconic open-lane concept, delivering a distinct retail and wellness resort experience designed for relaxation and discovery.
“As the Hainan Free Trade Port continues to open up amid growing demand for premium experiential retail, we are confident that this project will elevate the resort experience for domestic and international visitors, while creating lasting value for the local community.”
The development also places emphasis on environmental design, with an ecological corridor connecting rooftop and vertical greenery to landscaped areas at ground level.
Native plant species and biodiversity conservation are key elements of the project, including the preservation of two century-old Upas trees.
The retail complex will also connect with the Haitang River’s natural riverside trail, integrating the surrounding landscape into its open-air design. 🏝️
