China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism reported that domestic spending reached 809 billion yuan ($113.5 billion) during the eight-day Golden Week holiday, which combined the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day celebrations. The holiday, one of China’s longest annual breaks, ended on Wednesday.
Why It Matters
The figures highlight a rebound in consumer activity and travel within China, offering a snapshot of post-pandemic recovery momentum. Golden Week spending serves as a key economic indicator for domestic demand, tourism, and public confidence in the economy.
The surge in travel 888 million trips recorded nationwide benefited China’s tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors. Local governments and major cities also gained from increased revenue and tourism inflows, while Beijing is likely to view the results as a sign of economic resilience amid slowing exports and property market challenges.
What’s Next
Economists will closely watch whether this spending momentum continues into the final quarter of 2025. Sustained domestic consumption is seen as crucial for offsetting weakness in China’s real estate and manufacturing sectors.
($1 = 7.1262 yuan)
With information from Reuters.
