Earlier this week, the annual Central Economic Work Conference wrapped up, stressing that the Chinese mainland will keep expanding domestic demand in 2026 to fuel growth. 🚀
But first, let's rewind to 2025, a year packed with fresh consumer trends: gaming subscriptions, livestream shopping, and co-buying groups have all taken off, shaking up how we spend. 🛍️💻
Here are three highlights from 2025:
- Livestream Commerce Goes Mainstream: From Taobao Live to Kuaishou, watching influencers demo products in real-time turned scrolling into spending. It's kind of like when your fav GAME streamer promotes gear mid-stream! 🎥✨
- Group-Buying Frenzy: Apps like Pinduoduo let friends and neighbors team up to unlock mega discounts. Think of it as community e-shopping—similar vibes to local WhatsApp group deals in SEA markets! 📲🤝
- Digital Experiences FTW: AR try-on in stores, AI-powered recommendations, and mini-programs inside super apps made shopping insanely seamless. It's retail, but make it futuristic. 🤖🛒
Looking ahead to 2026, policies will aim to supercharge these trends. Expect even more perks for tech-driven retail, lower barriers for startups, and events spotlighting homegrown brands. 🌟
For young pros hustling across South and Southeast Asia, these shifts signal big cross-border opportunities—whether you're dreaming of launching your own e-shop or just curious about the next big thing in digital consumption. Stay tuned as the Chinese mainland market keeps setting the pace! 🌏💡
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
