China is at a crossroads where domestic demand holds the key to sustaining economic momentum. Zhang Bin, a deputy director at the Institute of World Economics and Politics at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and senior fellow at CF40, told CGTN that the Chinese mainland has an array of policy tools ready to deploy to lift consumer spending.
At the heart of any consumption surge lies household disposable income, Zhang notes. In the short term, boosting incomes through GDP growth is the most powerful driver for household spending. Simply put, when families earn more, they spend more—fueling everything from retail and e‑commerce to travel and entertainment.
For young entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts, this shift translates into fresh markets for startups and digital platforms. As wages rise, innovative business models—from fintech to sustainable travel services—can tap into a more confident consumer base. The global ripple effects are clear: higher demand in the Chinese mainland can strengthen supply chains and spark new partnerships across borders.
Meanwhile, thought leaders and change‑makers are watching keenly. An uptick in consumer confidence can pave the way for funds dedicated to green technologies and social initiatives. By linking policy levers such as targeted fiscal support with growth targets, Beijing can set the stage for more inclusive prosperity.
Ultimately, this conversation goes beyond numbers. It is about real people in cities from Shenzhen to Shanghai who are ready to explore, invest, and innovate. And as the Chinese mainland charts its path to higher consumption, the world’s young global citizens will be watching and waiting to join the journey.
Reference(s):
Think tank: China has ample policy tools to boost consumption
cgtn.com
