China's digital landscape is booming, with the number of internet users nearing 1.1 billion as of June this year, marking an increase of 7.42 million from the end of 2023. This surge brings the internet penetration rate in China to an impressive 78%, according to the latest report from the China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC).
Unveiled at the China International Big Data Industry Expo 2024 in Guiyang, the report highlights the sustained momentum in China's internet industry during the first half of the year. The rapid expansion of internet access is driving the growth of the digital economy, benefiting a wider population segment.
Digital consumption has played a pivotal role in boosting domestic demand between January and June. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics reveals that online retail sales soared by 9.8% year-on-year, reaching nearly 7.1 trillion yuan (approximately $995.7 billion).
A notable trend is the dramatic increase in mobile payment usage among inbound visitors. Over five million tourists utilized mobile payments in the first half of this year, a staggering 400% rise compared to the previous year. This shift follows China's enhanced efforts to address payment challenges faced by foreign travelers who traditionally rely on bank cards or cash, as mobile payment methods continue to dominate the country's transaction landscape.
The integration of advanced digital solutions and the widespread adoption of mobile payments are not only streamlining financial transactions but also reinforcing China's position as a leader in the global digital economy.
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China's online population nears 1.1 billion, new report shows
cgtn.com
