China Daily's 'Shopping in China' platform appeals to intl audiences

"The English-language website will highlight must-buy products, distinctive neighborhoods, time-honored brands, culinary specialties and cultural landmarks," said Liu, adding that the platform will strengthen policy interpretation, particularly on topics of keen interest to overseas audiences, such as visa-free transit and tax refunds for departing travelers.

The expansion of domestic demand is set to top China's major economic priorities this year, according to the recent annual Central Economic Work Conference. The tone-setting meeting outlined special initiatives to boost consumption, and the supply of high-quality consumer goods and services is set to be expanded.

In addition to Saturday's event, government officials from Shanghai, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, Wuhan, Hubei province and Shenzhen, Guangdong province, announced a series of local activities and consumer-friendly measures tailored for their cities and launched "Spring Festival Consumption Season" initiatives designed to benefit residents and stimulate spending.

At the same time, major Chinese companies, including Trip.com Group, Bailian Group, China UnionPay, Bank of China and China Eastern Airlines, also unveiled supporting measures under the "Shopping in China" initiative in Shanghai. The companies have affirmed their commitment to introduce targeted promotions, improve payment systems and upgrade travel and shopping services for domestic and international consumers.