The Chinese mainland's internet user base has surpassed a remarkable 1.092 billion as of December 2023, according to the China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC). This means nearly 78% of the population is now online, driving the nation's robust digital economy.
A pivotal factor in this growth is the \"dual gigabit\" network, a synergy of optical fiber and 5G technology. This advanced infrastructure includes over 68,000 32-bit IPv6 blocks, more than 20 million \".cn\" domain names, and an impressive 337 million 5G base stations that span urban areas across all city and county levels.
Inclusivity is also at the forefront of the Chinese mainland's internet expansion. Over 2,500 websites and mobile apps have integrated accessibility features tailored for senior citizens. Additionally, more than 140 million smartphones and TVs now feature elderly-friendly interfaces, ensuring that digital advancements benefit all age groups.
The surge in online services is a clear indicator of China's economic recovery. Online car hailing services saw their user base grow to 90 million by the end of 2023, marking a 20.7% increase from the previous year. Similarly, online medical services experienced a 14.2% annual growth, reaching over 51 million users.
Consumer behavior is also shifting, with a growing preference for domestic brands. Over 58.3% of online shoppers have opted to purchase trendy products from domestic brands in the past six months, highlighting a significant trend in the marketplace.
Reference(s):
Internet in China: Connectivity fuels digital economy and user growth
cgtn.com
