Key Tasks to Boost Domestic Consumption
The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council have issued a detailed action plan to stimulate consumer spending and expand domestic demand.
The plan emphasizes raising urban and rural residents' incomes by promoting reasonable growth in wages. Employment support programs will be implemented in key sectors, industries, and grassroots communities, particularly small and micro enterprises.
Additionally, measures will be taken to protect grain farmers' earnings, utilize farmers' legally owned housing through leasing or other forms, and upgrade the capabilities of low-income rural populations.
Enhancing consumption capacity is another critical aspect of the plan. Maternity and childcare support systems will be improved and childcare subsidies introduced.
To increase the use of public services, the plan proposes social adaptations for the aging population. This includes installing lifts in old buildings and developing meal services for the elderly. By promoting industries focused on senior travel, the plan aims to unlock the potential of the senior consumer market.
On the tourism front, it seeks to expand visa-exemption policies and enhance inbound tourism offerings. Greater support will be given to tax-free shops at designated ports, along with streamlined departure tax refund services for more premium merchants, to attract international travelers.
Modernizing large-scale consumption by encouraging a "trade-in" initiative for old goods, particularly for automobiles and household appliances, is another focus. This will leverage special long-term government bonds to fund local programs, facilitating the upgrade to greener and smarter durable goods.
To improve consumption quality, the plan highlights the importance of brand leadership in sectors such as trade, logistics, and culture. It aims to fuse traditional Chinese culture with contemporary product design, fostering original intellectual property development in areas like animation and gaming, thereby expanding both domestic and international markets.
The acceleration of new forms of consumption is another focus, with significant emphasis on digital consumption. Quality e-commerce and the integration of AI into consumer applications will be supported. The burgeoning low-altitude economic sector will be boosted by promoting low-altitude tourism, aviation sports, and drone usage.
This comprehensive action plan reflects China's efforts to boost domestic consumption as an essential driver of economic growth and enhance the overall well-being of the people.