South China's tropical island province of Hainan -- a popular tourist destination -- is advancing its opening-up policy as new tourism regulations come into force on Monday.

The measures aim to speed up the island's transformation into an international tourism hub.

The new regulations are expected to play a role in promoting marine tourism - including sailing, surfing and recreational fishing - alongside wellness and sports tourism, as well as self-driving and recreational vehicle (RV) travel along Hainan's ring road.

A special chapter on "tourism opening and internationalization" in the new regulations outlines steps to align with global standards.

This includes gradually easing foreign investment restrictions, expanding duty-free shopping for outbound travelers, developing international cruise routes, and streamlining visa-free entry for qualified foreign tourists.

Experts say the changes will benefit sectors such as hospitality and duty-free retail.

The new regulations came ahead of the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP)'s official launch of island-wide independent customs operations on December 18, which will be a milestone in China's opening-up drive.