Not far away, the fifth-generation "Xiao Bao" smart companion robot for senior care is on show. Luo Yuenan, a maintenance engineer for developer Fubao Robot, said Xiao Bao monitors blood pressure, blood sugar, body temperature and heart rate — all while offering medication reminders, AI-powered medical consultations, smart home control and even connection to online hospital services. "Seniors can consult doctors and receive delivery of medicines without leaving their homes," Luo said.

The expo, which runs through Saturday, is the first major international event since island-wide special customs operations were launched in Hainan late last year. It has attracted more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions, with international exhibits accounting for two-thirds of the total — a 20 percent increase from the previous edition.