Chongqing- Marking two years as an international consumption hub, Chongqing has showcased an impressive trajectory in its economic growth, with figures that eclipse national averages.
Over the past two years, the city's total social retail sales grew at an average rate of 3.8%, edging past the national average by 0.3 percentage points, as revealed at a press conference on August 17.
Neon lights illuminate the night of Chongqing. (Photo/ Chen Yunyuan)
Peng Heliang, Deputy Director of the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Commerce, elaborated on the city's remarkable progress since the State Council's 2021 endorsement. Alongside four other cities, Chongqing has been at the forefront of international consumption.
For the first half of the current year, the city's GDP climbed by 4.6%. Concurrently, retail sales and the value-added services sector expanded by 6.2% and 5.0%, respectively, underlining their importance in fortifying economic progress.
Post-pandemic, Chongqing's cultural and tourism sectors are thriving. Data from the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development indicates that overnight tourist visits soared by 90.6% year-on-year, amassing nearly 51 million since January. Top attractions witnessed a robust 70.7% growth, attracting over 70 million tourists.
Chongqing-made automobiles observed a nearly 200% surge
The city's emphasis on diverse sectors—from intelligent connected new energy vehicles (NEVs) and biomedicine to consumer goods—has played a crucial role in its upward economic trajectory. The first half of the year saw prominent growth in sectors like materials (8.7%), automobile and motorcycle (5.3%), and consumer goods (5.2%).
Furthermore, Chongqing's exports, especially automobiles, have witnessed a staggering rise of nearly 200%. Additionally, local delicacies, such as Wushan Crispy Plums and Fuling Pickles, have enjoyed a spike in popularity.
Peng emphasized the city's dedication to boosting consumer brands. This effort has resulted in the introduction of over 1,100 globally renowned brands. The initial half of 2023 alone marked a remarkable 141% year-on-year increase, accounting for the launch of 152 new brand stores.
Reshaping consumer experiences in innovative approaches
Chongqing's resolve to reinvent consumer experiences shines through its creation of distinctive landmarks like the Changjiahui Shopping Park, Chongqing Mix, and The Ring. Their avant-garde approaches incorporate elements from riverfronts, backstreets, building rooftops, and mountain caves. For instance, Raffles Chongqing's horizontal sky wheel and the integrated community night markets offer diverse consumption avenues.
In addition, Chongqing's culinary legacy is celebrated and refined, with the city constantly elevating its iconic dishes, such as hot pot and noodles, to further its global footprint. Festivals like the Chongqing Night Life Festival and the Hotpot Food and Culture Festival accentuate the essence of Bayu culture, marrying traditional Chinese elements with contemporary trends.