China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) has announced a fresh wave of policies designed to turbocharge consumption and inject vitality into the market, spokesperson Li Chao said at a press conference on Friday.
While some economic indicators softened in July, Li stressed that “the overall trend of consumption expansion and investment structure optimization remains unchanged.” Official data shows retail sales of consumer goods rose 3.7% year-on-year in July, and combined goods and services retail sales grew roughly 5% during the first seven months of 2025.
“China is already the world’s largest market for physical consumption, but there is still significant room for growth in per capita consumption, especially in services,” Li added.
The NDRC’s new blueprint, aimed at stoking inbound demand and fresh spending, revolves around three core pillars:
- Boosting employability and incomes: Launching large-scale vocational training programs to upgrade skills among college graduates and migrant workers, alongside a refined mechanism for adjusting minimum wage standards to reinforce purchasing power.
- Expanding high-quality supply: Extending trade-in policies and fast-tracking initiatives in the debut economy, digital consumption, and “AI + consumption.” Targeted support will nurture service industries like cultural tourism, major sports events, and camping.
- Enhancing the consumer environment: Building trustworthy service brands and backing local governments to create family-oriented and elderly-friendly consumption scenarios.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts, these measures signal new opportunities—from AI-driven retail solutions to immersive cultural tourism experiences. Travelers and digital nomads can expect an even richer landscape of services and experiences as China’s market pivots toward innovation-led growth.
With a clear focus on elevating incomes, optimizing supply, and improving the overall consumer experience, the NDRC’s plan could reshape spending patterns and open fresh avenues for investment across sectors.
Reference(s):
China's top economic planner takes measures to boost consumption
cgtn.com
