[Commerce Ministry official interprets new guidelines on commodity consumption]

On August 31, the Ministry of Commerce, together with the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the State Administration for Market Regulation, issued the Implementation Opinions on Promoting the Expansion and Upgrade of Commodity Consumption. An official from the Department of Consumption Promotion under the Ministry of Commerce stated that the Opinions set out four major tasks to boost commodity consumption:

Promote consumption of bulk durable goods – advance pilot reforms in automobile circulation and consumption to expand auto consumption across the entire chain, and accelerate the promotion and application of smart home products.

Steadily increase consumption of daily necessities – improve the quality of food, beverages, textiles and apparel, as well as cultural, sports and entertainment products.

Support consumption of specialty goods – focus on the needs of the elderly and children by boosting silver economy and infant/child products; encourage consumption of trendy domestic brands, high-quality export products, and premium international goods.

Foster consumption of upgraded products – in line with evolving consumer demand, promote green, smart, and health-oriented products.