The joint venture agreement, signed between Changi Airports International and Hainan Meilan International Airport, will last for a period of 10 years starting from January 2025.

Changi Airports International (CAI) has entered into a joint venture agreement (JVA) with Hainan Meilan International Airport Co. Ltd. on Oct 20 to manage the non-aeronautical commercial operations at Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK). HAK is located in Haikou City, the capital of Hainan Province. The airport serves domestic and international travellers.

Hainan Meilan International Airport will hold a 51% stake in the JV while CAI will own the remaining 49%. The JV will have exclusive rights to manage retail, food and beverage, advertising, leisure, and commercially important-person (CIP) services at HAK for 10 years starting from January 2025.

According to CAI’s release, the JV aims to tap on Changi Airport’s brand reputation and expertise in airport commercial management to transform HAK into an integrated consumer hub and level up consumer spending.

HAK has a passenger throughput of 24.34 million passengers in 2023, ranking 18th among airports in the Chinese mainland.

“Our collaboration with Hainan Meilan International stems from the shared vision of creating a world-class airport environment that supports both passenger experience and economic development,” says Eugene Gan, chief executive of CAI.

“With China’s growing economic and tourism potential, this partnership also supports Hainan’s goal to become a global tourism and trade centre. By harnessing CAI’s expertise, HAK is poised to attract more international brands, enhance the airport’s infrastructure, and solidify its position as a leader in the region’s travel and trade sectors,” he adds.