Xiaolong YAO, also known as Leo YAO, was born in 1972 in Fuzhou (Linchuan), Jiangxi Province. Following four years of service in the Chinese Navy stationed in Hainan, he transitioned into the transportation department of the Hainan branch of Poly Group, a prominent central state-owned enterprise, where he contributed to its real estate development operations.

After leaving the military, he had a short stint in the security department at Jingdezhen Porcelain Electric Appliance Company. Shortly after, he took a leave of absence from his original unit to rejoin the real estate development divisions of Poly Group, working across Hainan, Nanjing, and Suzhou.

Over more than two decades at Poly Group, he advanced from an entry-level role to serve as transportation manager and ultimately as Safety Director for the company’s real estate projects in Suzhou. As Safety Director overseeing multiple development projects in the region, he successfully maintained a flawless safety record, ensuring the construction sites remained incident-free while achieving timely project completion.

During this period, he utilized his sharp business sense and deep understanding of national policies to invest strategically in the transportation and real estate sectors. In 2019, he established a real estate agency and took on the role of General Manager at the Suzhou branch of Fangqiaqia Real Estate.

Balancing a demanding work schedule, he demonstrated remarkable dedication and graduated from Nanjing University of Science and Technology with a degree in civil engineering, showcasing his exceptional thesis.

In late 2023, he established Hainan Lian Trading Group Co., Ltd., anticipating the benefits businesses could reap from the upcoming policy set to launch in 2025. This policy aims to transform Hainan, China’s largest island, into a hub for international trade and business opportunities.

Hobbies: Passionate about Tai Chi, having trained under the renowned Suzhou Tai Chi master Huiqun Zhang and earning multiple championships in Suzhou Tai Chi competitions. He also has a deep appreciation for collecting fine calligraphy, exquisite paintings, and Yixing clay teapots crafted by esteemed artists. Additionally, he enjoys cars, traveling, tea culture, gourmet cooking, and wellness.