After the Meiji restoration, the villages of Ozaki, Nishitottori, Higashitottori, and Shimoshō were established within Hine District with the creation of the modern municipalities system on April 1, 1889.

Hannan collectively with the cities of Kaizuka, Sennan, and the town of Misaki contributes two members to the Osaka Prefectural Assembly.

In terms of national politics, the city is part of Osaka 19th district of the lower house of the Diet of Japan.

The main industry of Hannan since the Edo Period was traditionally textile production of cotton and silk, using the abundant waters from the Izumi Mountains.

At one point there were over 700 companies involved in textile production, but the rise of synthetics and overseas competition has severely impacted this industry.

In terms of primary industries, commercial fishing (including the farming of nori edible seaweed and oysters) and agriculture (notably a local variety of eggplant and onions) is also an important component of the economy.