HAIKOU - An international-standard football training base is being constructed in China's southern island province of Hainan.

While the rest of the Chinese mainland has visa regulations for many overseas citizens, Hainan has a visa-free policy for 59 foreign countries

Plans for the base include 30 standard-sized football pitches and supporting facilities, including 19 full-size outdoor pitches, one full-size indoor pitch, six seven-a-side pitches, two beach soccer fields and two goalkeeper training areas, according to developer Haikou Mission Hills.

"It is expected that they will be completed and put into operation in the first half of 2020," said Liu Rui, development director of Mission Hills.

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"The climate of Hainan is suitable for training in winter, and the training facilities of the Haikou Mission Hills football base are perfect," said Xiang Jun, head coach of Shenzhen FC's U-19 side.

While the rest of the Chinese mainland has visa regulations for many overseas citizens, Hainan has a visa-free policy for 59 foreign countries, giving overseas football clubs easier access to the island province for winter training opportunities.

"We will invite more foreign teams to Hainan winter training, providing opportunities for domestic teams to contact and compete with foreign teams, " said Xu Xianghong, an official from Hainan's sports bureau.