Step into any bustling laobacha (old dad tea) shop in Hainan, and you’ll find more than steaming pots of chrysanthemum tea and pineapple buns. Amid clinking cups and laughter, entrepreneurs hash out deals, investors swap insights, and locals share stories – all under the rhythmic hum of the island’s most iconic tradition. 🫖✨
As the Hainan Free Trade Port accelerates toward its 2025 development goals, these casual tea gatherings have become unexpected hubs for innovation. "It’s where my startup was born," says Chen Wei, 28, who secured funding for his eco-tourism app over sesame balls. "The relaxed vibe breaks down barriers – you’re family here."
Analysts note a 40% rise in small-business registrations this year, many nurtured in tea shops. The blend of heritage and modernity reflects Hainan’s unique strategy: leveraging cultural roots to fuel global ambitions. With new tax incentives and tech investments flowing in, that laobacha steam might just power Asia’s next economic hotspot. 💼🌴
