The Capital International Exhibition and Convention Center Hotel opened recently, marking the full operation of the center and its supporting facilities, according to its operator Beichen Group on Thursday.

The five-star hotel has a total floor area of 69,000 square meters, with eight floors above ground and one underground level. It offers 410 guest rooms and a 1,000-square-meter banquet hall, catering to accommodation, banquets, and conferences associated with the exhibition center.

The exhibition center itself began operation in February this year. As Beijing's largest standalone exhibition and convention venue, it offers comprehensive functions and features cutting-edge technologies, marking a significant upgrade to the city's exhibition capacity.

The center comprises a convention center, a hotel, nine exhibition halls, and three registration halls. It provides an indoor exhibition area of about 210,000 square meters and an outdoor exhibition area of around 50,000 square meters.

Since July, the center has hosted seven medium- and large-scale industry events, including three conventions in automotive manufacturing, food, and healthcare, serving a total of 17,000 attendees.

As the Beijing Central Axis approaches the first anniversary of its inscription on the World Heritage List of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), cutting-edge technologies have empowered efforts to protect and preserve its cultural heritage. Meanwhile, a host of new cultural-tourism scenarios have emerged along the axis.

The Yongdingmen Gate tower, the southern terminus of Beijing Central Axis, stands as a witness to both the traditional urban management systems of the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911) and historical events across different eras.

Since the Beijing Central Axis gained the UNESCO World Heritage status, Yongdingmen Gate has become a must-visit landmark. Its historical exhibition, enhanced with modern display technologies, has drown tens of thousands of visitors to the ancient gate tower.

"In the second half of this year, the Yongdingmen Gate tower is scheduled for restoration," said Chen Yanqing, deputy director of Dongcheng District Cultural Heritage Research Center. "Upon completion of this comprehensive conservation effort, its exhibitions will also undergo upgrades to better accommodate visitor needs."

From Yongdingmen Gate, the journey northward along the axis leads to Zhengyangmen Gate. The efforts to restore the Arrow Tower in Zhengyangmen have incorporated the the 3D laser scanning technology.

"For severely damaged architectural components, we conducted comprehensive 3D scanning to create digital models," said Chen Liang, an official of the Beijing Central Axis Heritage Conservation Center. "These informed the precise reconstruction of lintels, railings, and other elements using traditional molds — strictly adhering to original materials, designs, craftsmanship, and techniques."

In the Arrow Tower, there is a multi-function weather station to monitor microclimatic conditions around the ancient structure. Adjacent to it, an integrated BeiDou monitoring station uses advanced data signals to detect potential subsidence in the building's foundation.

The tower is equipped with five distinct monitoring systems, employing remote sensing satellites and online data transmission to enable precision conservation management. It also includes a hydrostatic level, an intelligent video deflectometer, and wireless accelerometers to measure settlement, detect displacement, and monitor vibrations, respectively.

The Drum Tower at the northern anchor of the Beijing Central Axis now features a VR experience zone. In this digital realm, visitors embark on a space-time journey back to the founding era of the Yuan dynasty's Dadu capital. This immersive voyage reveals the axis' origins and the Chinese wisdom behind its design, allowing visitors to learn about traditional Chinese philosophy.

Beijing on Thursday announced a comprehensive action plan with 24 measures aimed at driving consumption and enhancing the city's role as an international consumption center.

By 2030, Beijing targets an average annual consumption growth rate of about 5% and plans to build two to three major integrated commercial landmarks with annual sales exceeding 100 billion yuan ($13.94 billion).

The plan places income growth at the core of consumption expansion. Measures include promoting reasonable wage increases, implementing an employment-first strategy to support job creation, and establishing a more dynamic minimum wage adjustment mechanism.

To make it easier to purchase housing, the plan introduces reforms to housing provident fund policies. Buyers will be allowed to withdraw provident fund balances directly for home down payments, while new regulations will be developed to enable second-hand home transactions with existing mortgages to be settled via provident fund loans, streamlining the process for both buyers and sellers.

In the automotive sector, Beijing will optimize the allocation of license plate quotas to better serve family demand for vehicles, strengthen second-hand vehicle trading platforms, and simplify cross-regional transactions.

Emerging trends like anime, collectibles, and youth culture, known locally as the "Guzi Economy," will receive policy support. The city also plans to develop a "Future Beauty City" by attracting cosmetic and medical aesthetic business. 

Beijing is also expanding online healthcare services. As of June, 307 local medical institutions offered online services. A total of 1.11 million online consultations were recorded in the first half of this year, up 45% year on year. 

New tourism projects, including the second phase of Universal Studios and cultural routes along the Great Wall and the Grand Canal, will further enrich leisure options. Public spaces and old venues will be revitalized to create more vibrant commercial areas.

Beijing will boost consumption around its two main airports. Plans include building a world-class shopping and tourism complex near Beijing Daxing International Airport and turning the airports into gateways for foreign shoppers.

Duty-free shops will offer more premium Chinese goods, and cross-border e-commerce will be expanded, making it easier for shoppers to buy online and pick up in person.

In addition, the city will promote greater use of Olympic venues and major sports events to stimulate spending. A series of premium international and domestic sporting events will be held to drive sports-related consumption, according to the plan.

Former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama called for deeper cooperation between China and Japan to help break the global cycle of conflict and division, in a keynote speech delivered Thursday at the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing.

Former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama speaks at the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing, July 10, 2025. [Photo by Guo Shasha/China Pictorial]

Speaking at a time of rising international instability, Hatoyama said that this year — which marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II — should be a moment for reflection and renewed commitment to peace. "The 20th century was a century of war," he said. "Many had hoped the 21st would be a century of peace, but we are already a quarter into it, and wars and divisions continue to intensify."

He pointed to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, and rising tensions between nations like the United States and Iran, as signs that the world is veering further from peaceful coexistence. Against this backdrop, Hatoyama urged China and Japan to lead by example.

If neighbors harbor hostility, the damage is mutual. But if they support each other, the benefits ripple outward, he said.

Hatoyama stressed the importance of building what he called a "fraternity-based society" — one built on mutual respect, understanding and support. "Fraternity is not an outdated idea," he said. "In today's world, it is more essential than ever — not only between individuals, but between nations."

He also expressed admiration for China's approach to modernization, calling it "a contribution of Eastern wisdom to the progress of human civilization." He praised China's vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind and frameworks like the Belt and Road and the Global Development Initiative, which he said offer an inclusive, cooperative alternative to zero-sum geopolitics.

Hatoyama emphasized that true freedom and equality cannot exist in isolation, but only through coexistence. Drawing on Confucian values such as the concept that "harmony is most precious," he argued that these traditional philosophies could serve as guiding principles for global governance.

As the world reflects on the tragedies of past wars, Hatoyama said it is time for China and Japan to "show the world a way out of the cycle of division and hatred."

"We must recognize how foolish it is to kill each other or disparage other nations," he said, hoping that the meeting can send a clear message of peace to the world.

The ceremony for the second Orchid Awards is held in Beijing, July 10, 2025. [Photo/CICG] 

Nine foreign nationals and a foreign institution were recognized on Thursday in Beijing with the 2025 Orchid Awards, celebrating their long-standing contributions to cultural exchange and mutual understanding between China and the rest of the world.

This year's recipients come from diverse backgrounds and are engaged in a variety of fields. Among them include Irina Bokova, former director-general of UNESCO, who received the Lifetime Honorary Award; the Philadelphia Orchestra, who received the Outstanding Achievement Award; as well as Elyn Maclnnis, convener of "Friends of Kuliang" from the U.S., who received the Friendship Envoy Award. 

At the ceremony, many awardees stressed that fostering cultural exchange and promoting mutual understanding among civilizations are essential to advancing shared development. 

"I believe that dialogue among civilizations is not a luxury that we may put for the next [generation], but it should be part of our daily lives and our daily engagement with each other, at the grassroots level and also on the global stage." Bokova said when receiving the award. "We have to act as one humanity with a shared future."

Bokova was the first woman to become the director-general of UNESCO. Throughout her career, she has been involved in significant cooperation efforts with China, particularly in areas related to education and culture.

"We need these dialogues among civilizations, which is put forward by the Global Civilization initiative," she said.

The Global Civilization Initiative, proposed by China in 2023, advocates respect for the diversity of civilizations, the common values of humanity, the importance of inheritance and innovation of civilizations, as well as robust international people-to-people exchanges and cooperation.

Echoing this vision, award recipients expressed their commitment to preserving cultural diversity, supporting cross-cultural dialogue, and strengthening people-to-people bonds.

Receiving the Friendship Envoy Award in Beijing, Elyn Maclnnis said, "I have spent much of my life building bridges of friendship between China and the United States. The bridges are not made of steel or stone — they are built from warm, kindhearted people, and the stories of their lives in China that I have had the privilege to share."

Maclnnis was recognized for her various contributions to cultural exchange, including the establishment of "Friends of Kuliang," a group of descendants of American families who once lived harmoniously with local Chinese residents since the 1880s in Fuzhou province.

"When we listen to one another, when we care for one another, when we accept our differences, when we remember our shared stories, that's when friendship grows," she said.

The Philadelphia Orchestra was the single foreign institution receiving the Orchid Awards this year. The orchestra made history in 1973 as the first American orchestra to perform in China, returning more than a dozen times since. 

"As we celebrate this milestone, we are working toward a deep understanding of how our history forms the present and a bright future," Wang Yixun, a senior consultant for the Philadelphia Orchestra. "The orchestra's common belief is that music can build bridges, and we take the potential of this belief very seriously."

The Orchid Awards, initiated by China International Communications Group, recognize non-Chinese individuals and organizations for their contributions to facilitating exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations.

The awards were presented across three categories: Lifetime Honorary Award, Outstanding Achievement Award, and Friendship Envoy Award. Winners this year emerged out of over 300 candidates from around 80 countries and regions.

At this year's Orchid Awards, established by China International Communications Group, German professor and medical expert Thomas Rabe was presented with the Friendship Envoy Award in recognition of his lifelong efforts to promote China-Germany friendship and carry forward the humanitarian legacy of his grandfather, John Rabe.

Thomas Rabe standing beside the statue of his grandfather John Rabe. [Photo provided by Thomas Rabe]

A renowned gynecological endocrinologist and professor at Heidelberg University, Rabe has made notable contributions to medical cooperation between China and Germany. But beyond his professional achievements, it is his dedication to preserving and sharing his grandfather's legacy that has touched people in China and around the world.

John Rabe, remembered in China as the "Good Man of Nanjing," was a German businessman who helped establish the Nanjing Safety Zone during the Nanjing Massacre in 1937, saving the lives of more than 250,000 Chinese civilians. 

Despite threats to his own life, John Rabe opened his home and workplace to refugees, declaring, "If you want to kill the Chinese here, you have to kill me first," recalled Thomas Rabe.

"Though being a member of the Nazi Party, he did not act ideologically, but with compassion and kindness. His actions were driven by empathy and a strong sense of justice," said Thomas Rabe.

For decades, the full extent of John Rabe's heroism remained unknown, until the discovery and publication of his diaries, which document in vivid detail the atrocities committed by the Japanese forces during the massacre. Thomas Rabe, who inherited the manuscripts from his father, made it his mission to bring these important historical records to light. In 2016, he donated the original Nanjing volumes of the diaries to China's Central Archives. The diaries are now part of UNESCO's Memory of the World Register.

"I believe young people must learn what really happened," said Thomas Rabe, emphasizing that people cannot change the world all at once, but can start by helping those around us. "That's what my grandfather did."

That same humanitarian spirit continues to live on through Thomas Rabe. He founded the John Rabe Communication Center in six cities around the world, including Nanjing and Heidelberg, which host exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events aimed at deepening understanding between China and Germany.

As a leading figure in gynecological endocrinology and reproductive medicine, Rabe has led numerous collaborative medical projects with Chinese institutions. With his support, Chinese teams reached milestones such as the country's first successful ovarian tissue transplantation and natural pregnancy post-treatment.

Thomas Rabe receives the Friendship Envoy Award of the 2025 Orchid Awards in Beijing, July 10, 2025. [Poster designed by Song Xiucheng/China.org.cn]

Receiving the Orchid Award, Rabe said, "It's a big honor for me and my family to be here today. Because it's an honor not only for me, it's an honor for 117 years of collaboration between my family — over four generations — with China."

Looking ahead, Thomas Rabe is focused on carrying the legacy forward. He is currently working on a four-episode documentary series about John Rabe's life and values, which he hopes to bring to global audiences through collaboration with platforms like Netflix.

He shared that his son, Maximilian Rabe, has been learning Chinese. "I will continue the mission that started with my great-grandfather during the Japanese occupation in Nanjing, as well as the mission promoted by my father through for example the John Rabe Communication Center," said Maximilian Rabe, emphasizing that he will continue the legacy of promoting peace between Germany and China and also between China and the world.

The Youth Salon on China Studies, held Thursday in Beijing, brought together 25 young media professionals and students from 14 countries to explore cultural connections, promote dialogue and share perspectives on modern China and common values.

The Youth Salon on China Studies is held in Beijing, July 10, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Contemporary World magazine]

The event featured a range of sessions, including international media experts sharing their impressions of China, Chinese media professionals discussing how to tell China's stories well, and a workshop on cooperation.

Elkana Kuhenga from Tanzania's Daily News described China using the words "infrastructure," "culture" and "business and technology." He said bilateral collaboration in these areas — through large-scale projects, exchange programs and cost-effective trade — has led to a growing and mutually beneficial partnership.

Rustambekov Mirzaolim Mirzokhid Ugli of Uzbekistan's MY5 TV highlighted "innovation," "heritage" and "connectivity" in describing features of China, pointing to the country's digital transformation and the widespread use of mobile payments as examples.

"From artificial intelligence to smart city infrastructure and renewable energy, innovation is reshaping industries and daily life," he said. "This culture of progress and adaptation reflects a society determined to embrace the future."

The Youth Salon on China Studies is held in Beijing, July 10, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Contemporary World magazine]

During the cooperation workshop, participants highlighted shared values including sincerity, amity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness. They illustrated these values using symbols such as bridges and phrases like "friendship is more precious than gold." These contributions were placed on a collaborative display titled "A Tree of Youth Cooperation."

Participants agreed that culture serves as a bridge between nations, dialogue among civilizations promotes global peace and development, and values such as friendship, inclusiveness and diversity are essential for international cooperation.

The event concluded with participants adding their research interests on China to the collaborative display titled "A Tree of Youth Cooperation," with topics ranging from technological transformation to traditional myths and cultural heritage.

The Youth Salon on China Studies is held in Beijing, July 10, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Contemporary World magazine]

The salon was organized by Contemporary World magazine, a publication of the International Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

Tucked away in the quiet hills above Fuzhou in southeastern China's Fujian province was a village called Kuliang. Once a tranquil summer retreat for foreign residents in China, it is now a powerful symbol of enduring friendship between the East and the West. At the heart of this transformation is Elyn MacInnis, a cultural researcher, educator, and tireless advocate for China-U.S. people-to-people ties.

For decades, MacInnis has devoted herself to uncovering and sharing the history of Kuliang, where diplomats, educators, doctors, and their families from the foreign community lived with the Chinese on the mountain as neighbors in the late 1800s and the early 1900s. Their children played together, families shared meals, and without realizing it, they built a cross-cultural bond that would resonate across generations, MacInnis said.

Elyn MacInnis (2nd L) attends a story-sharing session at the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing, July 10, 2025. [Photo by Guo Shasha/China Pictorial]

At the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing on Thursday, MacInnis recalled one of the most moving stories of the Kuliang community: Milton Gardner, an American who spent his childhood in Kuliang and kept the village in his mind throughout his life. In 1992, then-Fuzhou Party Secretary Xi Jinping invited Gardner’s widow to visit the village, transforming Milton's memories into a shared story of friendship that now touches people around the world.

Over the years, MacInnis has collected more than 200 historical photographs, over 100,000 words of archival materials, and built the first English-language website dedicated to Kuliang. She also helped identify people in old photographs using AI technology, and reconnected descendants of families who once lived in the village — reviving a legacy of goodwill, cooperation, and shared humanity.

Guests pose for photos before attending the opening ceremony of Kuliang Families Story Museum in Kuliang, Fuzhou, southeastern China's Fujian province, June 22, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

"There were doctors who turned their summer homes into clinics on the weekends for local villagers; there were educators who spent their vacations teaching the mountain children to read and write; and the local villagers of Kuliang helped their foreign friends build strong houses of stone and wood and provided them with food and warmly welcomed them," recalled MacInnis.

"These are stories of respect, of care, of shared life together. That's what the Kuliang spirit is. And it’s exactly what the Global Civilization Initiative calls for — friendship through understanding, and peace through people-to-people connection."

Elyn MacInnis receives the Friendship Envoy Award of the 2025 Orchid Awards in Beijing, July 10, 2025. [Poster designed by Song Xiucheng/China.org.cn]

In recognition of her contributions, MacInnis was honored with the Friendship Envoy Award of the 2025 Orchid Awards in Beijing on Thursday.

Upon receiving the award, she said, "I have spent much of my life building bridges of friendship between China and the United States. The bridges are not made of steel or stone — they are built from warm, kindhearted people, and the stories of their lives in China that I have had the privilege to share."  

"My joy and my passion is finding the small details in the stories of people from different cultures who've come to China over time and become deep, deep friends — some of whom have been friends for four or five generations," MacInnis added. 

Looking ahead, MacInnis said she sees the younger generation as the key to sustaining this spirit. "As we walk together along the road of friendship — the flowers will bloom," she said, quoting Bing Xin, a prominent writer from Fuzhou.

Through every story told, every photo restored, and every connection rebuilt, MacInnis said she hopes the "Kuliang spirit" will grow — like the centuries-old cypress tree atop the mountain in Kuliang — getting stronger with every story that is shared.

More than 80 young people and representatives from 12 countries gathered in Beijing on July 7 for the launch of the "Youth Development for a Shared Future" Summer Camp, organized by the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation (CSCLF).

The seven-day event brings together participants from Armenia, Gambia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Oman, the Philippines, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, Spain, Thailand and Uzbekistan to experience Chinese culture.

Participants pose for a group photo at the launch of the "Youth Development for a Shared Future" Summer Camp organized by the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation in Beijing, July 7, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

CSCLF Vice Chairperson Zhang Jiming said the event aims to create a platform for youth from different countries to engage, enhance understanding and friendship, and promote unity and cooperation. 

He expressed hope that the participants will strengthen their appreciation of the richness of different civilizations, uphold the spirit of the Silk Road, and contribute to building a global community of shared future.

China Soong Ching Ling Foundation Vice Chairperson Zhang Jiming delivers a speech at the launch event of the "Youth Development for a Shared Future" Summer Camp in Beijing, July 7, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

During the opening ceremony, students from several countries introduced themselves and thanked the foundation for the opportunity.

They said the camp is a valuable way to learn more about Chinese culture, wisdom and heritage, and they looked forward to building lasting friendships.

The summer camp runs from July 6 to 12 and features visits and cultural exchanges in Beijing and Shaanxi province, an area with historical significance to the ancient Silk Road.

.    

China has made more breakthroughs in core technologies during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021–2025), including equipping more products with homegrown chips and making milestone achievements in key sectors, said Yuan Da, secretary-general of the National Development and Reform Commission, at a Wednesday press conference.

A sightseeing tourist train, the first of its kind dedicated to the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, began its inaugural journey from Beijing Railway Station on Wednesday. 

Carrying over 200 passengers, the train offers an immersive travel experience with unique features like an extra-long LED ceiling display, large panoramic windows, side-top skylights, and comfortable massage seats.

The train operates on a conventional rail line, initially connecting China's capital city of Beijing with Chengde in northern Hebei province. Comprising seven carriages, the train integrates sightseeing, dining, and entertainment into a mobile cultural space. Its configuration includes a panoramic sightseeing carriage, a multi-functional entertainment carriage, a themed dining carriage and four sightseeing carriages, the train provides tourists with a mobile cultural space integrating sightseeing, dining and entertainment.

This innovative tourism venture is a collaborative effort between China Railway Beijing Group, the Hebei Provincial Development and Reform Commission, and China Travel Group. Initial routes include Chengde and Qinhuangdao, with base fares starting at 375 yuan per person. Various package options are also available.

Beijing's Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism has launched its "Splendid Beijing Summer" tourism campaign on July 9, featuring more than 150 summer-themed events, 6,200 cultural performances and over 3,800 public benefit cultural activities.

The initiative aims to attract residents and tourists to explore the city during the summer months, with programs designed around five key themes: graduation trips, study tours, art performances, suburban getaways and expanded night markets.

For graduating students, the bureau released "10 Things to Do in Beijing During Graduation Season." These recommendations include exploring a hutong, attending a performance, discovering a museum, and exploring a trendy art district. Many attractions are offering free admission or discounts to middle and high school graduates.

To enrich children's learning, the city is also developing themed summer study tours, with 10 routes for local students and six for international visitors, focused on traditional opera, intangible cultural heritage and nature experiences.

As a vibrant "city of performing arts," Beijing will also host a variety of domestic and international performances, ranging from plays and dance dramas to musicals and concerts.

For those looking to beat the heat, authorities have launched seven rural tourism routes showcasing cooler natural attractions, including primeval forests, alpine meadows and wetlands.

Beijing is also expanding nighttime entertainment with new night markets, outdoor movies, music festivals and late-night eateries across the city.

To enhance the visitor experience, the city is optimizing services, with some scenic spots and museums extending operating hours, promoting seamless immigration clearance for travelers, and improving the 24-hour "Beijing Service" integrated service center functions.

Beijing will roll out new carbon credit management measures from Sept. 1 to encourage greater public participation in green and low-carbon activities, the Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau recently announced.

The program allows residents to earn carbon credits by using public transport, riding shared bikes, walking and other eco-friendly travel.

These actions are tracked and verified through participating platforms, and the resulting carbon savings — called "carbon assets" — can be traded on the city's carbon market. Proceeds are then distributed to individuals and small businesses as coupons, vouchers, goods or charitable donations.

The rollout builds on earlier efforts to promote low-carbon travel, including the launch of the Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) green travel platform in 2019, attracting participation from several travel service companies.

In 2020, the city also developed schemes covering low-carbon commuting, replacing gasoline vehicles with electric ones and reducing emissions through hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The low-carbon commuting scheme alone has involved more than 5.6 million participants and cut carbon emissions by over 400,000 tons to date.

The new measures are expected to translate residents’ green habits into tangible benefits, actively contributing to the city's low-carbon push.

From its first domestically built aircraft carrier with electromagnetic catapults to the world's second space station and a pioneering lunar far-side sample return, China has achieved a series of significant breakthroughs in innovation during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025).

During its 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), China has taken concrete actions to lead global green development, promote shared prosperity among nations, and uphold fairness and justice in the world, as it shoulders its responsibilities as a major nation, said Zheng Shanjie, chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission, on Wednesday.

The Modern Railways 2025 exhibition at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, July 8, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The Modern Railways 2025 exhibition wraps up Thursday at the China National Convention Center and National Railway Test Center, having drawn 521 enterprises from 14 countries and regions since opening Monday.

Spanning nearly 40,000 square meters, the exhibition has featured leading companies such as China Railway (CR), CRRC, Siemens and Huawei.

The CR450 EMU prototype on display at the National Railway Test Center in Beijing, July 9, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

A highlight of the exhibition has been the display of 30 advanced trains and locomotives at the National Railway Test Center, including the CR450 EMU prototype, designed to be the world's fastest high-speed train, with a test speed of 450 kph and an operating speed of 400 kph.

Visitors have also toured six key laboratories, such as the Braking System Laboratory, the High-Speed Railway Pantograph-Catenary Relationship Laboratory and the Railway 5G Innovation Laboratory.

Juergen Model, CEO of Siemens Mobility Greater China, speaks with reporters at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, July 8, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

At the China National Convention Center, the exhibition has featured displays in 10 areas, covering rolling stock, engineering construction, communication and signaling, information technology, passenger and freight transport, traction power supply, safety, maintenance, energy saving and environmental protection.

China's GDP is projected to reach 140 trillion yuan in 2025, Chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission Zheng Shanjie said Wednesday. The country successively crossed the 110-trillion-yuan, 120-trillion-yuan, and 130-trillion-yuan thresholds in the 14th Five-Year Plan period. Despite its vast scale and external challenges, the country has sustained a strong momentum of growth — an unprecedented achievement in the history of world economies, he said.

Attendees participate in the opening ceremony of the 12th World High-Speed Rail Conference at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, July 8, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The 12th World Congress on High-Speed Rail opened at the China National Convention Center in Beijing on July 8, bringing together more than 2,000 participants from over 60 countries and regions to showcase advancements and foster international cooperation in high-speed rail technology.

Jointly hosted by China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. (CR) and the International Union of Railways (UIC), the event runs until July 11under the theme "High-Speed Rail: Innovation and Development for a Better Life."

The opening ceremony featured addresses from UIC and CR leaders on global and Chinese high-speed rail development. Participants, including representatives from countries with newly established high-speed rail networks, engaged in a themed discussion titled "HSR New Frontiers." The opening ceremony also marked the inauguration of the Modern Railways 2025 exhibition. The exhibition, spanning nearly 40,000 square meters across the China National Convention Center and the National Railway Test Center, features 521 enterprises from 14 countries and regions, including CR, CRRC, Siemens and Huawei.

A bilingual "China High-Speed Rail" publication and official mascots "Fufu" and "Xinxin" were also unveiled at the event.

中文

Speaker:

Mr. Fu Linghui, spokesperson of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and director general of the Department of Comprehensive Statistics of the NBS

Chairperson:

Zhou Jianshe, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

June 16, 2025

Zhou Jianshe:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). This is a regular briefing on China's economic data. Today, we are joined by Mr. Fu Linghui, spokesperson of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and director general of the Department of Comprehensive Statistics of the NBS. Mr. Fu will brief you on China's economic performance in May 2025 and then take your questions.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Fu.

Fu Linghui:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. I am very pleased to attend today's press conference. I will start by briefing you on the main economic indicators for this May and then take your questions.

In May, China's economy remained stable while making further progress.

In May, under the strong leadership of the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, all regions and departments conscientiously implemented the decisions and deployments of the Party Central Committee and the State Council. Adhering to the general principle of seeking progress while maintaining stability, we fully and accurately implemented the new development philosophy on all fronts, accelerated the construction of the new development pattern, solidly promoted high-quality growth, and accelerated the implementation of more proactive and effective macro policies. The national economy withstood the pressure and operated steadily, with production demand growing steadily, employment remaining stable, new drivers of growth becoming stronger, and high-quality development moving toward excellence and innovation.

First, industrial production registered stable growth and equipment manufacturing and high-tech manufacturing grew quickly.

In May, the total value added of industrial enterprises above designated size grew by 5.8% year on year, or 0.61% month on month. In terms of sectors, the value added of mining went up by 5.7% year on year, manufacturing up by 6.2%, and the production and supply of electricity, thermal power, gas and water up by 2.2%. The value added of equipment manufacturing increased by 9.0% year on year, and that of high-tech manufacturing increased by 8.6%, which were 3.2 percentage points and 2.8 percentage points faster than that of the total value added by industrial enterprises above designated size. In terms of ownership, the value added of state holding enterprises increased by 3.8% year on year; that of share-holding enterprises increased by 6.3%; that of enterprises funded by foreign investors or investors from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan increased by 3.9%; and that of private enterprises increased by 5.9%. In terms of products, the outputs of 3D printing devices, industrial robots and new energy vehicles (NEVs) grew by 40.0%, 35.5% and 31.7% year on year, respectively. In the first five months, the total value added of industrial enterprises above designated size went up by 6.3% year on year. In May, the manufacturing purchasing managers' index (PMI) stood at 49.5%, an increase of 0.5 percentage point from the previous month. The production and operation expectation index was 52.5%, up by 0.4 percentage point. In the first four months, the total profits made by industrial enterprises above designated size were 2.117 trillion yuan, up by 1.4% year on year.

Second, the service sector grew quickly, with the modern services sector gaining momentum.

In May, the index of services production (ISP) increased by 6.2% year on year, 0.2 percentage point faster than that of the previous month. In terms of sectors, that of information transmission, software and information technology services, and leasing and business services, wholesales and retails grew by 11.2%, 8.9% and 8.4% year on year, respectively, which were 5.0 percentage points, 2.7 percentage points and 2.2 percentage points faster than that of the ISP. In the first five months, the ISP increased by 5.9% year on year. In the first four months, the business revenue of service enterprises above designated size went up by 7.2% year on year. In May, the business activity index for the service sector was 50.2%, up 0.1 percentage point from the previous month; and the business activity expectation index was 56.5%, rising by 0.1 percentage point. Specifically, the business activity index for sectors like railway transportation, air transportation, postal service, telecommunication, broadcast, television and satellite transmission services, internet software and information technology services, stayed within the high expansion range of 55.0% and above.

Third, market sales recovered and sales of products under the trade-in program grew rapidly.

In May, the total retail sales of consumer goods was 4.1326 trillion yuan, up by 6.4% year on year, 1.3 percentage points faster than that of April; or up by 0.93% month on month. Analyzed by different areas, the retail sales of consumer goods in urban areas reached 3.6057 trillion yuan, up by 6.5% year on year; and that in rural areas reached 526.9 billion yuan, up by 5.4%. Grouped by consumption patterns, the retail sales of goods were 3.6748 trillion yuan, up by 6.5%; and the income of catering was 457.8 billion yuan, up by 5.9%. Sales of basic living goods and some upgraded products showed good growth. Retail sales in units above designated size of grain, oil and food products, jewelry, and sports and entertainment goods grew by 14.6%, 21.8% and 28.3%, respectively. The effect of trade-in of consumer goods continued to show results, with the retail sales of household appliances and audiovisual equipment, communication equipment, cultural and office supplies, and furniture by enterprises above designated size growing by 53.0%, 33.0%, 30.5% and 25.6%, respectively. In the first five months, the total retail sales of consumer goods reached 20.3171 trillion yuan, up by 5.0% year on year. Online retail sales reached 6.0402 trillion yuan, up 8.5% year on year. Specifically, the online retail sales of physical goods were 4.9878 trillion yuan, up 6.3%, accounting for 24.5% of the total. In the first five months, the retail sales of services grew by 5.2% year on year.

Fourth, fixed-asset investment continued to expand, with manufacturing investment growing fast.

In the first five months, fixed-asset investment (excluding rural households) reached 19,194.7 billion yuan, up 3.7% year on year. Excluding real estate development investment, fixed-asset investment grew 7.7%. By sector, investment in infrastructure grew 5.6% year on year, manufacturing investment rose 8.5%, and real estate development investment fell 10.7%. Nationwide, sales of newly built commercial buildings totaled 353.15 million square meters, down 2.9% year on year. Sales of newly built commercial buildings were 3,409.1 billion yuan, a decrease of 3.8%. By sector, primary industry investment grew 8.4% year on year, secondary industry investment rose 11.4%, and tertiary industry investment fell 0.4%. Private investment was flat from a year earlier. Excluding investment in real estate development, private investment increased 5.8%. Within high-tech industries, investment in information services rose 41.4% year on year; investment in aerospace vehicle and equipment manufacturing grew 24.2%; investment in computer and office device manufacturing increased 21.7%; and investment in professional technical services climbed 11.9%. In May, fixed-asset investment (excluding rural households) increased 0.05% month on month.

Fifth, goods imports and exports continued to grow, and the trade structure kept improving.

In May, total goods imports and exports reached 3,809.8 billion yuan, up 2.7% year on year. Of this total, exports hit 2,226.7 billion yuan, up 6.3%, while imports were 1,533.1 billion yuan, down 2.1%. In the first five months, total goods imports and exports reached 17,944.9 billion yuan, up 2.5% year on year. Of this total, exports reached 10,668.2 billion yuan, up 7.2%, while imports were 7,276.7 billion yuan, down 3.8%. In the first five months, general trade imports and exports grew 0.8%, accounting for 64.2% of the total trade value. Imports and exports by private enterprises grew by 7% year on year, accounting for 57.1% of the total trade value, up 2.4 percentage points from the same period last year. Exports of mechanical and electrical products grew 9.3% year on year, accounting for 60% of the total export value.

Sixth, employment remained generally stable and the surveyed urban unemployment rate declined.

In the first five months, the average surveyed urban unemployment rate was 5.2%. In May, the surveyed urban unemployment rate was 5%, down 0.1 percentage point from the previous month. The surveyed unemployment rate for people with local household registration was 5%, and the rate for those with non-local household registration was also 5%. The rate for people with non-local agricultural household registration was 4.9%. The surveyed urban unemployment rate in 31 major cities was 5%, down 0.1 percentage point from April. The average weekly working hours for employees at enterprises nationwide was 48.5 hours.

Seventh, consumer prices remained low, while the core consumer price index (CPI) rebounded modestly.

In May, the CPI fell 0.1% year on year and 0.2% month on month. By category, prices for food, tobacco and alcohol rose 0.1% year on year; clothing prices increased 1.5%; housing prices were up 0.1%; prices for household goods and services rose 0.1%; transportation and communication prices fell 4.3%; education, culture and entertainment prices increased 0.9%; health care prices rose 0.3%; and prices for other goods and services jumped 7.3%. In terms of food, tobacco and alcohol prices, fresh vegetable prices fell 8.3%, grain prices dropped 1.4%, pork prices rose 3.1%, and fresh fruit prices increased 5.5%. The core CPI, which excludes food and energy prices, went up 0.6% year on year, 0.1 percentage point higher than that of the previous month. In the first five months, the CPI dipped 0.1% year on year.

In May, the national producer price index (PPI) fell 3.3% year on year and 0.4% from the previous month. Purchasing prices for industrial producers dropped 3.6% year on year and 0.6% from the previous month. In the first five months, both the national PPI and the purchasing price index for industrial products fell 2.6% from a year earlier.

Overall, in May, as the effects of a combined policy package continued to materialize, efforts to stabilize the economy and promote growth showed clear results. The national economy maintained a generally stable trajectory with steady progress, fully demonstrating its resilience and vitality. It should also be noted that there are many external uncertainties and destabilizing factors, domestic demand's internal growth momentum still needs to be strengthened, and the foundation for sustained economic recovery and improvement needs to be further consolidated. Moving ahead, we must adhere to the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, resolutely implement the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and adhere to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability. We must fully and accurately implement the new development philosophy, accelerate the construction of a new development paradigm, coordinate domestic economic work with international economic and trade efforts, and unswervingly handle our own affairs well. We will give greater priority to the expansion of domestic demand and the strengthening of the domestic economic cycle, concentrate on stabilizing employment and the economy, and promote high-quality development to advance sustained and healthy economic development. Thank you.

Zhou Jianshe:

Thank you, Mr. Fu. The floor is now open for questions. Please identify your media outlet before asking your question.

National Business Daily:

We have observed that in May, the impact of international factors and new drivers of domestic consumption continued to grow and interact. Based on the data for May, what trends or characteristics stood out in China's economic performance? How would you evaluate it? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

In May, the international environment changed rapidly. Facing a complex situation, under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee, all regions and departments accelerated the implementation of more proactive and effective macroeconomic policies. They focused on stabilizing employment, enterprises, the market and expectations; worked to expand domestic demand; promoted the integration of technological and industrial innovation; strengthened the domestic economic cycle; and effectively responded to external changes. As a result, economic performance remained generally stable, some indicators continued to improve, new drivers of growth grew stronger, and the momentum of high-quality development persisted, demonstrating the strong resilience and vitality of China's economy. Mainly, the following characteristics stood out:

First, growth remained stable. With the support of various policies, enterprises actively adjusted and responded, leading to rapid growth in industrial production. In May, the value added of industrial enterprises above designated size increased 5.8% year on year, maintaining rapid growth. China has a complete industrial system, and key sectors such as equipment manufacturing have seen accelerated growth while advancing industrial upgrading. This has provided strong support for stable industrial expansion. In May, the value added of equipment manufacturers above designated size increased 9%, accounting for 54.3% of the growth of industrial production. The expansion of domestic consumption and increased holiday travel also drove faster growth in the service industry. The service production index rose 6.2% year on year in May, 0.2 percentage point faster than the previous month. Stable growth in production and supply provided strong support for meeting market demand and boosting economic growth.

Second, economic performance remained stable. To determine whether the economy is operating stably, it is important to examine changes in production and demand indicators, as well as employment and price trends. As for production and demand indicators, in May, the growth rates of key measures — such as the value added of industrial enterprises above designated size, the service production index, and total retail sales of consumer goods — remained generally stable, indicating overall stability in production and demand. From the perspective of employment, the national surveyed urban unemployment rate in May was 5%, down 0.1 percentage point from the previous month. From a price perspective, due to international factors and lower prices for some food items, the CPI in May declined slightly year on year, but the rate of decline was unchanged from the previous month. The increase in core CPI, which excludes food and energy, was higher than the previous month, indicating that market supply and demand remained generally balanced. These figures show that overall economic performance in May was steady.

Third, continued improvement was seen. While overall economic performance remained stable, macroeconomic policies continued to take effect, domestic demand expanded, production and supply increased, and some indicators showed further improvement. Boosted by consumer goods trade-ins and online sales promotions, sales growth has accelerated. In May, total retail sales of consumer goods increased 6.4% year on year, 1.3 percentage points faster than the previous month. In the first five months, retail sales of services increased 5.2%, 0.1 percentage point faster than in the first four months. Accelerated consumption growth, especially increased spending on services, boosted related service industries. In May, the production index for wholesale and retail rose 1.6 percentage points, while the index for accommodation and catering increased 0.9 percentage point from the previous month.

Fourth, multiple growth drivers emerged. China is at a critical stage of industrial upgrading and development. As innovation plays an increasingly prominent role, new drivers of growth, such as high-end manufacturing, the digital economy and new energy industries, continue to strengthen. This has supported industrial transformation and stable economic performance. The statistical data for May also reflect these trends. The value added of high-tech manufacturers above designated size increased 8.6% year on year, while the value added of digital product manufacturers increased 9.1%, both significantly outpacing the overall growth rate of enterprises above designated size. The output of NEVs and solar cells jumped 31.7% and 27.8%, respectively, maintaining rapid growth.

Fifth, the economy showed great resilience. Against the backdrop of a complex and severe external environment, China's economy continued to show resilience and potential. This was evident not only in stable economic performance, but also in the continuous growth of foreign trade despite external pressures. In May, China's total imports and exports of goods increased 2.7% year on year, with exports up 6.3%. Despite sluggish global economic growth and a decline in trade with the United States, China successfully diversified its foreign trade. Imports and exports with ASEAN countries and Belt and Road partner nations continued to grow. Although exports of some labor-intensive products have slowed, exports of electromechanical products with higher technical content have expanded. These factors have boosted trade growth and reflect the advantages of China's large economic scale, complete industrial system and strong overall competitiveness.

Overall, in the face of changes in the external environment, the macro policies have worked together, and all sides have actively responded. In May, the national economy operated steadily overall, continued its trend of high-quality development, and showed comparatively strong resilience and vitality. In the next stage, there are many uncertain factors in the international environment, long-standing problems accumulated in the domestic economy are still emerging, and the foundation for economic recovery and improvement still needs to be consolidated. We must thoroughly implement the decisions and deployments of the Party Central Committee and the State Council, implement more proactive and promising macro policies, focus on strengthening the domestic economic flows and innovation-driven development, solidly promote high-quality development and foster the sustained and healthy development of the economy. Thank you.

South China Morning Post:

After the Geneva agreement between China and the U.S. was reached in May, did the related outcomes show up in the May economic data, such as in terms of exports, employment and investment? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your question. In May, China and the U.S. made substantial progress and reached important consensus during trade talks in Geneva, which is beneficial to the improvement of the economic and trade relations between the two countries and also conducive to the development of the world economy. From the overall situation in May, the economy operated steadily. Under the effect of macro policies, production and demand maintained steady growth, employment continued to improve and remained stable overall, new momentum continued to grow, high-quality development was steadily promoted, and the economy showed a steady and progressive development trend. Thank you.

Reuters:

What is the government's economic forecast for the second quarter? And will further policy support measures need to be rolled out?

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. As for the forecast of economic growth, as a department involved in statistics, we generally do not make such predictions. Because we are data producers, there is a certain contradiction if we also engage in making predictions. In terms of the overall economic operation, the annual economy still has relatively good support. Since the beginning of this year, facing the complex environment, under the strong leadership of the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, China's economy has withstood pressure and operated steadily, showing strong resilience and vitality. Judging from the current situation, the long-term positive trend of our economy remains fundamentally unchanged. It has distinct characteristics such as a stable foundation, numerous advantages, strong resilience and great potential, thereby providing a solid foundation, guarantee and support to ensure stable economic operation.

First, the development trend is good, and the stable operation has a foundation. Since the second quarter, although the external environment has been complex and volatile, macro policies have continued to exert their effects; the large number of business entities have adapted and pursued innovation; our economy has withstood the pressure and achieved stable growth; and high-quality development has been steadily advanced, laying a solid foundation for the stable operation of the economy in the next stage. In terms of the major indicators, from January to May, the service industry production index and total retail sales of consumer goods increased by 5.9% and 5% year on year, respectively, both accelerating compared to the first quarter. The added value of industries above designated size achieved a fast growth rate of 6.3%.

Second, policy efforts have been effective, ensuring stable and long-term development. Since the beginning of this year, China has implemented more proactive macro policies, increased counter-cyclical adjustments, accelerated the promotion of the "two major" (major national strategies and security capacity building in key areas) and "two new" (large-scale equipment upgrades and trade-in of consumer goods) policies, effectively enhanced consumption vitality, driven production growth, promoted transformation and upgrading, and fully demonstrated the important role of macro policies in stabilizing economic operations. Looking forward, China has sufficient reserves in its policy toolbox, with room for macro policy adjustments, which can be dynamically adjusted and actively responded to according to changes in the situation, continuing to guide the stable operation of the economy.

Third, innovation momentum is growing, supporting positive development. China continues to unwaveringly adhere to high-quality development, accelerate the cultivation and growth of new quality productive forces, and speed up the integration of technological innovation and industrial innovation. Meanwhile, the development trend of emerging industries is relatively good, traditional industries have been renewed and upgraded, the development of the digital economy and green economy is flourishing, and the continuously growing new momentum will provide a continuous new driving force for economic development. From January to May, the added value of digital product manufacturing industries above designated size increased by 9.9% year on year; and from January to April, the operating income of "little giant" service industry enterprises above designated size, which use specialized and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products, increased by 18.4%, fully reflecting the strong vitality of the new momentum.

It is also worth noting that at the recent first meeting of the China-U.S. economic and trade consultation mechanism, the two sides reached a principled agreement on a framework of measures to implement the consensus from the June 5 call between the two heads of state and to consolidate the outcomes of the Geneva economic and trade talks. New progress has been made in addressing each side's economic and trade concerns, helping to promote the stable and sustainable development of China-U.S. economic and trade relations. This is also expected to bring greater stability and certainty to the global economy.

Of course, it should also be noted that the external environment remains complex and severe, with many unstable and uncertain factors. Domestically, there are difficulties in transitioning between traditional and new drivers of growth, and pressure to maintain stable economic performance persists. In the face of a complex environment, the key is to remain focused on our own businesses, implement more proactive and effective macroeconomic policies, continuously strengthen the internal momentum of economic development, and respond to external uncertainties with the certainty provided by high-quality development. Thank you.

Dazhong Daily:

Amid the continued rollout of economic stabilization policies in 2025, how have these combined macroeconomic measures affected May's economic data? How should their performance be evaluated? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Since the beginning of this year, in the face of a complex and volatile development environment, various regions and departments have earnestly implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. They have vigorously pursued more proactive and effective macroeconomic policies, helping the economy withstand pressure and maintain stable operations, with the effects continuing to emerge. Judging by key indicators in May, continued macroeconomic policy support has helped expand demand, boost production, improve expectations and unleash market vitality, providing important backing for stable economic performance.

First, it unleashed the potential of domestic demand. Consumer goods trade-in programs have spurred rapid growth in sales of related products. In May, among retail sales by enterprises above the designated size, sales of household appliances and audiovisual equipment, communication devices, cultural and office supplies, and furniture rose by 25.6% to 53% year on year, posting rapid growth. These categories contributed 1.9 percentage points to the increase in total retail sales of consumer goods. The impact of investment in equipment upgrades has also continued to grow. In the first five months of the year, investment in equipment and tools rose 17.3%, driving overall investment growth by 2.3 percentage points and accounting for 63.6% of total investment growth.

Second, it has driven production growth. Driven by large-scale equipment upgrades, production in related industries has grown rapidly. In May, the value-added output of industries above designated size such as lithium-ion battery manufacturing, ship and related equipment manufacturing, and boiler and prime mover equipment manufacturing rose 28.6%, 12.8% and 11.8% year on year, respectively. With the continued impact of consumer goods trade-in programs, demand for green, intelligent and high-quality products has continued to emerge, which has also driven production growth. In May, production of trade-in products increased, with NEVs up 31.7%, tablet computers up 30.9% and electric bicycles up 20.5%.

Third, it has improved business performance and expectations. With the ongoing rollout of macroeconomic policies, market sales have expanded, driving gains in corporate performance, profit recovery and improved expectations. In terms of corporate performance, from January to April, the profits of industrial enterprises above designated size increased 1.4% year on year, 0.6 percentage point faster than that from January to March. In April alone, profits increased 3%, 0.4 percentage point faster than in March. In terms of expectations and confidence, the manufacturing PMI rebounded by half a percentage point in May compared with the previous month, with the production index returning to expansion territory. The services business activity index stood at 50.2%, marking the third consecutive month it has stayed in the positive growth range.

Fourth, it has increased market vitality. Effective macroeconomic policies have boosted market activity, leading to faster flows of people and goods. In May, the year-on-year growth rate of passenger turnover accelerated compared with the previous month, and the number of domestic tourists during the May Day holiday rose 6.4% nationwide. The expansion and optimization of visa-free policies have led to an influx of foreign tourists, while inbound tourism has also shown strong vitality. Express delivery business volume is expected to maintain rapid growth for May.

Next, we need to further implement the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. We will adopt more proactive and effective macroeconomic policies, further expand domestic demand, ensure the smooth flow of economic circulation, and stimulate momentum and vitality. These efforts will help to continuously strengthen the foundation for sound economic development. Thank you.

Market News International:

In May, import growth measured in U.S. dollars continued to decline. What are the reasons for the contraction in imports so far this year? What is the outlook for import performance in the second half of the year? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Since the this year, the decline in China's imports of goods has been the result of multiple factors. Since the beginning of this year, affected by the uncertainty of international trade policies, the growth momentum of the global economy has weakened, and we have seen a slowdown in global trade growth, which will inevitably affect the growth of China's imports. At the same time, some countries have increased trade restrictive measures, which have also had some adverse effects on China's imports. Moreover, after the weakening of global economic growth momentum this year, international commodity prices, and especially energy prices, have significantly declined. As a major importer of energy and raw materials, the decline in commodity prices will affect the growth of our imports. In the first five months, the average import prices of iron ore, crude oil, coal and soybeans in China decreased by 16.4%, 10.6%, 22.5% and 13.9%, respectively. These factors will have a certain impact on our imports.

While the import value of some commodities has declined, the import of major industrial products in China has continued to grow. In the first five months, the import value of machinery and electronic products increased by 6% year on year, with the import value of automatic data processing equipment and its parts, and integrated circuits increasing by 69% and 7.3%, respectively. In the next stage, as domestic demand continues to expand and China seizes the initiative by opening the market wider to the outside world in an orderly manner, China's vast market will undoubtedly offer greater opportunities and more choices to the world. Thank you.

China Financial and Economic News:

From the newly released data, we noticed that the CPI in May decreased by 0.1% year on year, while the core CPI increased by 0.6%. What is the reason for this? How would you assess this phenomenon? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. In May, the CPI decreased by 0.1% year on year and by 0.2% month on month. The month-on-month change in the CPI turned from an increase to a decrease, with a slight year-on-year decline, mainly due to international factors and the decline in food prices.

First, the decline in international energy prices has led to a decrease in the prices of domestic gasoline and other related consumer goods. The weakening of global economic growth momentum and the significant decline in energy commodity prices have increased the effect transmitted to domestic energy prices, pulling down energy prices in the CPI for May. From a month-on-month perspective, in May, energy prices in the CPI decreased by 1.7%, leading to a decrease of about 0.13 percentage point in CPI, among which gasoline prices decreased by 3.8%, 1.8 percentage points wider than the previous month. From a year-on-year perspective, in May, energy prices in the CPI decreased by 6.1%, 1.3 percentage points wider than the previous month, leading to a decrease of about 0.47 percentage point. Energy prices are the main factor affecting the year-on-year decrease in the CPI in May.

Second, some fresh food has come to market. With sufficient food supply, prices have fallen. In May, the market supply of vegetables, eggs and other foods increased, driving prices downward. From a month-on-month perspective, in May, food prices fell by 0.2%, leading to a decrease of about 0.04 percentage point in the monthly CPI. Specifically, fresh vegetable prices decreased by 5.9%, while prices for eggs, pork and poultry decreased by 0.3%-1%. From a year-on-year perspective, in May, food prices decreased by 0.4%, with the rate of decline widening by 0.2 percentage point from the previous month.

Although the CPI slightly declined year on year in May, the economy remained stable and the effects of policies to boost consumption have emerged. The positive changes in the CPI are accumulating.

First, the core CPI growth rate has expanded. Since food and energy prices are significantly affected by short-term factors, the core CPI, which excludes food and energy, better reflects the trend of price changes. In May, the core CPI increased by 0.6% year on year, 0.1 percentage point higher than the previous month, reflecting the gradually greater role of domestic demand in driving prices.

Second, prices of industrial consumer goods have increased at a quicker pace. The trade-in policy has been strengthened and expanded, driving up the prices of related industrial consumer goods. In May, the prices of industrial consumer goods excluding energy rose by 0.6% year on year, an increase of 0.2 percentage point from the previous month. The prices or cultural and entertainment durable consumer goods, such as cellphones and computers, rose by 1.8%.

Third, the rise in service prices has widened. Holiday demand and the expansion of residents' requirements for education, culture and living have driven up service prices. In May, service prices went up by 0.5% year on year, 0.2 percentage point higher than the previous month. Specifically, prices for flight tickets and tourism increased by 1.2% and 0.9%, respectively, and the prices of family services and education services increased by 1.7% and 1.2%, respectively.

The current price situation should be viewed from a comprehensive and nuanced perspective. On one hand, we're seeing the positive effects of policies aimed at boosting domestic demand and promoting a reasonable recovery in the overall price level. The core CPI growth has steadily expanded and positive changes in prices have continuously accumulated. However, we also need to acknowledge that overall prices are at a low level, affecting the corporate profitability and the employment and income increases of residents. In the next stage, we will further coordinate expanding domestic demand with deepening supply-side structural reforms, leverage the combined effects of macro policies, regulate market pricing, promote improve the supply and demand relationships, and foster a reasonable recovery in prices. Thank you.

Jiupai News:

In the current economic environment, job market stability is critically important. What are the key highlights and concerns in the May employment data? In response to employment challenges, which areas should be prioritized to promote job growth going forward? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Since the beginning of this year, the international environment has become increasingly complex and severe, with more uncertainties emerging. This has had a certain impact on businesses' demand for labor. Amid the complex situation, all regions and departments have actively implemented policies and measures to promote high-quality and full employment, increased support for businesses to create jobs, and focused on key groups in the workforce. These efforts have helped maintain overall employment stability. Latest figures show that the national urban surveyed unemployment rate was 5% in May, down 0.1 percentage point from the previous month. The unemployment rate among those aged between 25 and 59, the majority of the labor market, remained stable, while the youth unemployment rate declined for a third consecutive month. The overall employment situation continued its stable trend.

The employment situation in May remained generally stable due mainly to the following factors: First, steady economic growth provided a foundation for stability. More proactive and effective macroeconomic policies have yielded results. Domestic demand has steadily expanded, effectively offsetting the negative impact of external factors. This has ensured the stable operation of the economy, helped stabilize labor demand, and created favorable conditions for employment stability. In May, the value-added output of industrial enterprises above designated size rose 5.8% and the service industry production index increased 6.2%, both maintaining overall stability compared with April. Second, industrial development has been actively promoted. Driven by supportive policies, several industries with large employment capacity performed well, which also contributed to employment stability. Policies encouraging the trade-in of consumer goods and the boost from the holiday economy led to expanded market sales. Industries such as wholesale and retail, accommodation, and catering remained active, supporting employment stability. In May, the production indices for the wholesale and retail industry increased 8.4%, while the accommodation and catering industry rose 6.2%, marking a significant acceleration in growth compared to the previous month. Third, policies aimed at stabilizing employment have taken effect. Since the beginning of this year, relevant departments have intensified efforts to implement employment stabilization policies. These measures include increased support for enterprises to expand job opportunities, greater subsidies for individuals, and enhanced assistance for people facing employment difficulties. By focusing on the development of new quality productive forces, creating consumption hotspots and advancing key engineering projects, we have actively sought new sources of job growth, expanded vocational skills training and strengthened public employment services. All these efforts have contributed to overall employment stability.

However, it is important to note that employment stability still faces certain pressures, mainly due to the complex changes in the external environment, which have affected the labor market. Domestically, some industries are having difficulty recruiting workers, while certain groups are under significant employment pressure. These trends reflect ongoing mismatches between labor supply and demand. Next, in response to employment pressures, we should follow the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. We need to further stabilize employment and the economy, strengthen vocational skills training, improve the match between labor supply and demand, promote full employment, enhance employment quality, continuously improve people's livelihoods, support stable and healthy economic development, and maintain overall social stability. Thank you.

CCTV:

Based on economic performance in the first five months, what trends have emerged in the Chinese economy amid a complex and challenging external environment? What are the forecasts for the economic trend in the first half of the year? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Since the beginning of this year, the external environment has grown increasingly complex, with rising unilateralism and protectionism severely impacting the international economic and trade order. However, China's economy remains fundamentally stable, backed by numerous advantages, strong resilience and great potential. The momentum for stable growth, the trend toward high-quality development, and the shift toward new and positive development have all remained unchanged. These are the sources of confidence and assurance that enable China's economy to overcome various risks and challenges as it moves forward.

First, the momentum for stable economic growth remains unchanged. In the first quarter of this year, China's economy got off to a strong start. Since April, however, increased uncertainty in trade policies and other factors have weakened the momentum of global economic growth. Major economic organizations have lowered their forecasts for growth in 2025. According to the latest report from the World Bank, the global economy is projected to grow 2.3% in 2025, down 0.4 percentage point from the forecast at the beginning of the year. Under these circumstances, maintaining growth stability in China's economy since the second quarter has been particularly challenging. From a production perspective, the value-added output of industrial enterprises above designated size rose 6.3% year on year from January to May, while the service industry production index grew 5.9%. Both indicators remained generally stable compared with the first quarter. From a demand perspective, total retail sales of consumer goods rose 5% from January to May, showing faster growth than in the first quarter. Fixed-asset investment increased 3.7%, remaining basically stable.

Second, innovation-driven development remains unchanged. In recent years, China has been gradually shifting from old to new drivers of growth, with innovation playing an increasingly important role in development. This year, all sectors have continued to increase investment in innovation, advance scientific and technological innovation, and drive industrial innovation, with the economy maintaining its shift toward new development trends. In the first five months, the value added of high-tech manufacturing enterprises above designated size increased 9.5% year on year. Breakthroughs have been made in cutting-edge technology fields such as large AI models and humanoid robots, further boosting industrial upgrading. From January to May, the output of industrial robots rose 32% year on year, while the value added of in-vehicle smart device manufacturing increased 26.8%.

Third, the shift toward green and low-carbon development remains unchanged. China is unswervingly promoting the transition to a green and low-carbon economy, which not only improves the ecological environment but also supports the steady growth of green industries, particularly in the new energy sector, fostering new drivers of economic growth. This year, the development of China's green industry has continued to improve. In the first five months, the output of NEVs and solar cells increased 40.8% and 18.3% year on year, respectively. Clean energy generation has grown rapidly, with wind, solar power generation by industrial enterprises above designated size increasing 11.1% and 18.3%, respectively, from January to May.

Fourth, the pursuit of high-level opening up remains unchanged. Against the backdrop of rising protectionism, unilateralism and challenges to global economic and trade exchanges, China continues expanding its high-level opening up. We're actively engaging in economic and trade cooperation with partners worldwide on the basis of mutual benefit and win-win results. The positive results are becoming increasingly apparent. From January to May, China's total volume of trade in goods increased 2.5% year on year, while the value of trade in services from January to April rose 8.2% compared with the same period last year. To facilitate cross-border travel, China has proactively expanded its visa-free policies, promoting economic ties and people-to-people exchanges. During this year's May Day holiday, the number of inbound visitors entering China under the visa-free policy increased 72.7% year on year.

Fifth, the ongoing improvement of people's livelihoods remains unchanged. Ensuring and improving people's well-being during development is a key goal of Chinese modernization. Since the beginning of this year, all localities and government departments have focused on stabilizing employment and the economy, working to boost personal incomes and strengthening efforts to better meet people's basic needs. From January to May, China's average surveyed urban unemployment rate was 5.2%, indicating a generally stable employment situation. From January to April, spending on social security and employment in the national general public budget rose 8.5%, while education spending increased 7.4%. Both rates outpaced the overall growth of total general public budget spending. The General Office of the CPC Central Committee and the General Office of the State Council recently issued new guidelines to further safeguard and improve public well-being and address the most pressing concerns of the public. As related policies are gradually implemented, they will further enhance people's quality of life.

These conditions show that China's economic performance had a strong start in the first quarter. Despite increased external shocks in the second quarter, China's strong economic foundation, effective policies and robust development momentum continue to provide firm support for stable economic performance. Therefore, based on the first half of the year, China's economy is expected to maintain overall stability and achieve steady progress. Thank you.

CNR:

We have noticed that the State Council recently issued a notice on conducting the fourth national agricultural census. What are the main objectives and key areas of this census? Moreover, what are the differences between this census and previous ones? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions and interest in the agricultural census. The State Council recently announced plans to conduct the fourth national agricultural census in 2026. It will be a major survey on national conditions and strength as China forge ahead on the new journey of advancing the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through Chinese modernization.

According to the Statistics Law of the People's Republic of China and the Regulation on National General Surveys of Agriculture, the agricultural census is conducted once every 10 years, with years ending in six designated as census years. China will conduct the fourth national agricultural census in 2026. The main goal is to develop a clear understanding of the state of the country's agriculture, rural areas and rural residents in the new era, and to objectively capture new developments in agricultural growth, new trends in rural construction, changes in rural life and progress in rural reform. This census is of great significance for formulating sound policies for agriculture and rural affairs, advancing all-around rural vitalization, accelerating the modernization of agriculture and rural areas, and building China into an agricultural powerhouse.

The fourth agricultural census will focus on five main areas. First, it will examine agricultural production conditions, including agricultural personnel, land use and transfers, and agricultural social services. Second, it will cover grain and food production, including grain and cash crops, livestock products such as meat, eggs and milk, as well as forestry products and aquatic products. Third, the census will assess new quality productive forces in agricultural productivity, including new types of agricultural business entities, modern protected agriculture and smart agriculture. Fourth, it will look at basic rural development, including rural industrial development, construction and governance. Fifth, it will investigate rural residents' living conditions, including household situations and quality of life.

Compared with the previous three national agricultural censuses, there are several major changes in the fourth . First, keeping up with the times. In terms of the content, this census, on the basis of understanding the conditions of agriculture, rural areas and rural residents, investigations will be made in new areas such as diversified food supply, agricultural new quality productive forces, and creating a beautiful and harmonious countryside. Second, being scientific and efficient. In terms of methodology, this census will adopt a combination of comprehensive census and sampling survey, as well as a mix of long and short forms, which will effectively improve the quality and efficiency of the census, and reduce the burden on primary-level workers. Third, being empowered by digital technologies. From the perspective of census-taking means, this census will strengthen the application of modern survey methods, and make full use of modern information technologies such as satellite remote sensing, drones and artificial intelligence to improve the level of digital and intelligent data collection. Fourth, joint governance and shared benefits. From the perspective of data utilization, this census will make extensive use of administrative records, and strengthen the development and utilization of census data, with the aim of creating a unified "map" of agricultural census data, and promote the extensive application and sharing of census results.

Currently, the fourth national agricultural census is in the preparation stage, which mainly involves the establishment of census institutions, the development of census plans, and the implementation of pilot surveys. Here, we would like to invite friends from the media to pay attention to and support the fourth national agricultural census. Your active publicity work will help mobilize social participation and ensure the census is carried out smoothly. Through our collective efforts, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of our country's agricultural foundation and better promote the construction of an agricultural powerhouse. Thank you.

Shandian News:

What are the new highlights and changes in the domestic consumer market in May? How effective have the previous policies aimed at boosting consumption been? And what are your expectations for the driving force and trend of consumption growth? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Consumption is an important engine of economic growth, and vigorously boosting consumption is key to responding to external changes, smoothing domestic circulation, and improving residents' quality of life. Since the beginning of this year, various regions and departments have resolutely implemented the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, actively promoted special actions to boost consumption, and intensified and expanded the implementation of the consumer goods trade-in policy. As a result, market sales have grown rapidly, service consumption potential has been unleashed, and these efforts have effectively supported the stable economic performance.

Under the combined effects of the May Day and Dragon Boat Festival holidays, the "6.18" E-commerce Shopping Festival, and the consumer goods trade-in policy, the total retail sales of consumer goods in May increased by 6.4% year on year, accelerating by 1.3 percentage points from the previous month. From January to May, the retail sales of services increased by 5.2%, accelerating by 0.1 percentage point from January to April. The acceleration of consumption growth has been mainly supported by the following factors:

First, the consumer goods trade-in policy has shown a significant driving effect. The effectiveness of the trade-in policy continues to be evident, unleashing residents' consumption potential, and promoting the rapid growth of sales of related goods. In May, the retail sales of household appliances and audiovisual equipment, communication equipment, cultural and office supplies, and furniture by enterprises above designated size increased by 53%, 33%, 30.5% and 25.6% year on year, respectively, collectively driving the total retail sales of consumer goods to rise by 1.9 percentage points, an increase of 0.5 percentage point from the previous month.

Second, the "6·18" E-commerce Shopping Festival provided significant momentum. This year's "6·18" E-commerce Shopping Festival, launched on May 13 by e-commerce platforms, combined with the goods trade-in policy, has driven the acceleration of online retail sales. From January to May, the online retail sales of physical goods increased by 6.3% year on year, accelerating by 0.5 percentage point compared with January to April, accounting for 24.5% of the total retail sales of consumer goods.

Third, holiday consumption showed good performance. During the May Day and Dragon Boat Festival holidays, there was a significant increase in travel by residents, with domestic tourism trips increasing by 6.4% year on year. Regions actively explored new models of cultural and tourism consumption, with diversified supply injecting new momentum into expanding consumption, leading to rapid growth in spending on cultural and tourism leisure, transportation services and dining-out. In May, catering revenue increased by 5.9% year on year, up 0.7 percentage point from the previous month. From January to May, the retail sales of tourism consulting and rental services, transportation services, and cultural and sports services all maintained double-digit growth.

Fourth, new growth drivers for consumption are continuously being unleashed. Market supply continues to diversify, the consumption environment is gradually improving, and residents' demand for high-quality living is increasing, driving the rapid growth of related goods and services sales. In May, the retail sales of sports and entertainment goods and gold and silver jewelry by enterprises above designated size increased by 28.3% and 21.8% year on year, respectively, maintaining double-digit growth. The rapid development of network technology has driven the expansion of residents' demands for communication services. From January to May, the retail sales of communication information services increased by more than 10%, accelerating by 0.5 percentage point compared with the January-April period.

It should also be noted that, since the beginning of this year, China has gradually expanded the range of countries that qualify for visa-free entry, promoting personnel exchanges and invigorating the consumer market. During the May Day holiday, the number of inbound foreign nationals entering under the visa-free policy increased by more than 70% year on year. Data from travel platforms shows that the volume of inbound tourism orders has multiplied, and the number and amount of payment transactions processed by China UnionPay and NetsUnion for overseas visitors in China have increased by 2.4 times and 1.3 times, respectively.

Overall, the economy has remained stable, the effects of consumer goods trade-in policies have continued to emerge, and the vitality of the consumer market has gradually increased. Looking ahead, new forms and models of consumer spending — such as livestreaming sales and instant retail — are becoming increasingly mature. The silver economy, first-release economy and low-altitude economy are developing rapidly, with new growth drivers in consumer spending continuing to emerge. However, it should also be noted that consumer capacity and confidence still need to be improved, and the internal momentum driving consumption must be further strengthened. Moving forward, we will further implement the Special Action Plan to Boost Consumption, with a focus on enhancing consumer capacity and confidence. We will continue to improve the consumption environment, significantly increase the supply of high-quality products, actively promote the upgrading and expansion of service consumption, and support the steady development of the consumer market. Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald:

How did industrial enterprises above designated size perform in May? What were the main characteristics? How do you evaluate the future development trend of China's industrial production? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Driven by the effective implementation of macroeconomic policies and industrial upgrading, the valueadded output of industrial enterprises above designated size increased 5.8% year on year in May. Industrial production maintained steady and rapid growth, demonstrating strong resilience and growth potential. The steady advancement of high-end, intelligent and green industrial development has fueled high-quality economic growth.

First, the industrial sector's move toward high-end development has progressed steadily. In recent years, as companies have strengthened their technological capabilities and financial resources, there has been a clear shift in industrial production toward medium- and high-end, technology- and capital-intensive sectors. In May, the value-added output of equipment manufacturing and high-tech manufacturing enterprises above designated size increased 9% and 8.6% year on year, respectively, both continuing to grow faster than the overall industrial sector above designated size. By industry, key equipment manufacturing industries grew rapidly in May, with the value added by automobile manufacturing up 11.6% and by computers, communication and other electronic equipment manufacturing up 10.2%. By product, high-tech product output grew rapidly in May, with 3D printing equipment production up 40% and integrated circuits up 11.5%.

Second, the development of industrial intelligence has accelerated. The integration and penetration of the digital economy have continued to increase, further strengthening its role in driving industrial production. In May, the value added by the digital product manufacturing industry grew 9.1%, significantly outpacing the growth rate of all industrial enterprises above designated size. The integration of technological innovation and industrial innovation is accelerating, and demand for intelligent products is expanding significantly, driving rapid growth in production. In May, the value added by intelligent unmanned aerial vehicle manufacturing rose 85.9%, while in-vehicle smart device manufacturing increased 29.5%. The output of robot reducers doubled, while the output of industrial robots increased 35.5%.

Third, green industrial production has made significant progress. With the green transformation of the economy and society, demand for new energy products and green materials has continued to grow. Coupled with improved innovation capabilities among enterprises, the supply of green products is also expanding. In May, the output of NEVs and automotive lithium-ion power batteries rose 31.7% and 52.5%, respectively, while the supply of new green materials also increased. The output of high-performance chemical fibers, bio-based chemical fibers, and carbon fibers and their composite materials climbed 92.2%, 21.5% and 17.9%, respectively.

Fourth, business revenue expectations have improved. Since the beginning of this year, the economy has remained generally stable, creating favorable conditions for enterprises to improve their business performance. From January to April, the profits of industrial enterprises above designated size increased 1.4% year on year, while the profits of manufacturing enterprises increased 8.6%. As the effects of macroeconomic policies have become apparent, business expectations for production and operations have improved. In May, the manufacturing PMI rose 0.5 percentage point from the previous month. Among them, the production index was 50.7%, up 0.9 percentage point from the previous month, while the production and business expectations index reached 52.5%, up 0.4 percentage point.

Overall, industrial production grew steadily in May, with new growth drivers continuing to emerge and demonstrating strong momentum. However, it should also be noted that the external environment is complex and severe, and industrial product prices are at a low level. The industry still faces pressure to maintain steady growth. Looking ahead, we will implement various policies to support industrial development, actively expand domestic demand, vigorously cultivate new quality productive forces, and optimize and adjust the industrial structure. We will also advance the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries to promote the sustainable and healthy development of industry. Thank you.

Dingduan News:

In the first five months, the total value of goods imports and exports increased 2.5% year on year, with exports in May up 6.3%. Given weak global demand and tariff hikes by some countries, what are the sources of resilience in China's exports? How do you view the outlook for foreign trade in the near future?

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. China's foreign trade continued to withstand pressure in May and achieved steady growth. China's total goods imports and exports increased 2.7%, with exports climbing 6.3%, maintaining steady and rapid growth. According to data from market institutions, the global manufacturing PMI new export orders index remained below the threshold indicating expansion in May, marking the second consecutive month in contraction territory. Trade protectionism and rising uncertainty are having an increasingly negative impact on global trade growth. Against this background, the growth of China's goods trade reflects the strong international competitiveness and resilience of the country's foreign trade sector.

Looking at our trading partners, trade with the U.S. fell, while trade with ASEAN, the EU and Belt and Road partner countries grew, reflecting China's progress in diversifying its foreign trade. In the first five months of this year, trade with ASEAN, the EU, and Belt and Road partner countries rose 9.1%, 2.9% and 4.2%, respectively. From the perspective of business entities, China's private enterprises have demonstrated strong market adaptability and flexibility in responding to external fluctuations. They have greatly expanded markets and advanced development, providing solid support for foreign trade growth. From January to May, imports and exports by private enterprises rose 7% year on year, with exports up 8% and imports up 4.9%, outpacing the national average.

In terms of exports, China's ongoing industrial upgrades have boosted the technological sophistication of its products and strengthened its international competitiveness. Exports of electromechanical products remain a key driver of growth, while high-end goods such as integrated circuits have also posted rapid increases. From January to May, exports of electromechanical products grew 9.3% year on year, including an 18.9% increase in integrated circuit exports. The competitive edge of high-tech products remains strong, with exports in this category rising 7.4% in the same period.

Despite a complex and challenging international environment, with rising unilateralism and protectionism severely disrupting global trade, China's foreign trade has continued to grow steadily. This resilience is attributed to China's ongoing commitment to opening up, efforts to diversify foreign trade, advances in high-end, intelligent and green industrial development, continued product upgrades and greater market competitiveness. Government support measures, including improved trade facilitation, have also helped create favorable conditions for foreign trade. Looking ahead, external uncertainties and instabilities may put pressure on growth, but China still holds significant advantages in foreign trade. Continued high-level opening up, based on mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, will remain a key driver of steady growth in the sector. Thank you.

Zhou Jianshe:

Due to time constraints, we'll take one final question.

Jinan Times APP:

Based on the data, how would you assess the real estate sector in May? What's your outlook for the real estate market moving forward? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

In the fourth quarter of last year, local governments and relevant departments carried out central directives to stabilize the real estate market, introducing a range of city-specific policies that produced positive results. Since the beginning of this year, as stabilization measures have gained momentum, the market has continued to recover. In May, the real estate sector's overall performance remained stable. Year-on-year declines in home prices across 70 large and medium-sized cities continued to narrow, and inventories of commercial housing continued to fall.

In terms of transactions, real estate sales remained steady, supported by stabilizing policies. From January to May, the floor area and total sales of newly built commercial housing fell 2.9% and 3.8% year on year, respectively, remaining largely unchanged from the January-April period. The market was relatively active in some first- and second-tier cities, with both floor area and sales value increasing. On the pricing front, the year-on-year decline in prices for newly built commercial residential units continued to narrow. In May, among the 70 large and medium-sized cities, most saw the year-on-year decline in the sales prices of commercial residential buildings narrow. Specifically, the year-on-year decline in sales prices for new commercial housing narrowed by 0.4 percentage point in both first-tier and second-tier cities and 0.5 percentage point in third-tier cities. For secondhand homes, the year-on-year decrease narrowed by 0.5, 0.4 and 0.5 percentage point, respectively. Regarding commercial housing inventory, at the end of May, the total floor area of commercial housing for sale decreased by 7.15 million square meters compared with the end of April, marking the third consecutive month of decline.

Overall, policies to halt the market downturn and restore stability have continued to deliver results, and the real estate sector remained largely stable in May. However, it should also be noted that the real estate market is still adjusting, market confidence is still recovering, supply and demand dynamics need further improvement, and continued efforts are required to reinforce stabilization. Looking ahead, it is necessary to fully implement the decisions of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council and proactively respond to significant shifts in supply-demand dynamics. We must continue to promote urban renewal and the renovation of dilapidated housing, increase the supply of high-quality homes, better meet both basic and improved housing needs, and actively foster a new development model for the real estate sector. These actions will support the sector's stable and healthy growth. Thank you.

Zhou Jianshe:

Thank you, Mr. Fu. That concludes today's press conference. Goodbye, everyone.

Translated and edited by Chen Xinyan, Mi Xingang, Liu Sitong, Liu Ziying, Zhang Tingting, Xu Kailin, Yan Xiaoqing, Yan Bin, Wang Xingguang, Cui Can, Wang Yiming, Li Huiru, Zhang Junmian, Zhou Jing, Zhang Rui, Fan Junmei, David Ball, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

中文

Speaker:

Mr. Fu Linghui, spokesperson of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and director general of the Department of Comprehensive Statistics of the NBS

Chairperson:

Zhou Jianshe, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

May 19, 2025

Zhou Jianshe:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). This is a regular briefing on China's economic data. Today, we are joined by Mr. Fu Linghui, spokesperson of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and director general of the Department of Comprehensive Statistics of the NBS. Mr. Fu will brief you on China's economic performance in April 2025 and then take your questions.

First, I will give the floor to Mr. Fu for his introduction.

Fu Linghui:

Good morning, everyone. As usual, I will start by briefing you on the main economic indicators for this April and then take your questions.

In April, the national economy withstood pressure and maintained stable growth.

In April, in the face of a complicated situation marked by increasing external shocks and multiple domestic difficulties and challenges, under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, all regions and departments strictly implemented the decisions and arrangements made by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, adhered to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, fully and faithfully applied the new development philosophy on all fronts, accelerated efforts to create a new pattern of development, took solid steps to promote high-quality development, stepped up the implementation of more proactive and effective macro policies, and responded to the external shocks effectively. As a result, production and demand grew steadily, employment was generally stable, and new growth drivers accumulated and grew. The national economy maintained stable growth despite pressure, sustaining the new and positive development momentum.

Fu Linghui:

First, industrial production grew quickly, with equipment manufacturing and high-tech manufacturing showing good growth momentum.

In April, the total value added of industrial enterprises above designated size grew by 6.1% year on year, or 0.22% month on month. In terms of sectors, the value added of mining went up by 5.7% year on year, manufacturing up by 6.6%, and the production and supply of electricity, thermal power, gas and water up by 2.1%. The value added of equipment manufacturing increased by 9.8% year on year, and that of high-tech manufacturing increased by 10.0%, which were 3.7 percentage points and 3.9 percentage points faster than that of industrial enterprises above designated size, respectively. In terms of ownership, the value added of state holding enterprises was up by 2.9% year on year; that of share-holding enterprises was up by 6.6%; that of enterprises funded by foreign investors or investors from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan was up by 3.9%; and that of private enterprises was up by 6.7%. In terms of products, the outputs of 3D printing devices, industrial robots and new energy vehicles (NEVs) grew by 60.7%, 51.5% and 38.9% year on year, respectively. In the first four months, the total value added of industrial enterprises above designated size went up by 6.4% year on year. In April, the Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index was 49.0%; and the Production and Operation Expectation Index was 52.1%. In the first three months, the total profits made by industrial enterprises above designated size were 1,509.4 billion yuan, up by 0.8% year on year.

Second, the service sector grew steadily and modern services developed well.

In April, the Index of Services Production grew by 6.0% year on year. In terms of sectors, that of information transmission, software and information technology services, leasing and business services, wholesales and retails, and finance grew by 10.4%, 8.9%, 6.8% and 6.1% year on year, respectively, which were 4.4 percentage points, 2.9 percentage points, 0.8 percentage point and 0.1 percentage point faster than that of the Index of Services Production. In the first four months, the Index of Services Production increased by 5.9% year on year. In the first three months, the business revenue of service enterprises above designated size went up by 7.0% year on year. In April, the Business Activity Index for Services was 50.1%, and the Business Activity Expectation Index for Services was 56.4%. Specifically, the Business Activity Index for industries like air transportation, telecommunication, broadcast, television and satellite transmission services, internet software and information technology services, and insurance stayed within the high expansion range of 55.0% and above.

Third, market sales maintained steady growth and trade-in goods grew quickly.

In April, the total retail sales of consumer goods reached 3,717.4 billion yuan, up by 5.1% year on year, or up by 0.24% month on month. Analyzed by different areas, the retail sales of consumer goods in urban areas reached 3,237.6 billion yuan, up by 5.2% year on year; and that in rural areas reached 479.8 billion yuan, up by 4.7%. Grouped by consumption patterns, the retail sales of goods were 3,300.7 billion yuan, up by 5.1%; and the income of catering was 416.7 billion yuan, up by 5.2%. Sales of basic living goods and certain upgraded goods showed sound growth. The retail sales of grain, oil and food and of sports and recreational articles by enterprises above designated size went up by 14.0% and 23.3%, respectively. The effect of trade-in of consumer goods continued to manifest, with the retail sales of household appliances and audiovisual equipment, cultural and office supplies, furniture, and communication equipment by enterprises above designated size growing by 38.8%, 33.5%, 26.9% and 19.9%, respectively. In the first four months, the total retail sales of consumer goods reached 16,184.5 billion yuan, up by 4.7% year on year. Online retail sales reached 4,741.9 billion yuan, up by 7.7% year on year. Specifically, the online retail sales of physical goods were 3,926.5 billion yuan, up by 5.8%, accounting for 24.3% of the total retail sales of consumer goods. In the first four months, the retail sales of services grew by 5.1% year on year.

Fourth, investment in fixed assets continued to expand and investment in manufacturing grew quickly.

In the first four months, investment in fixed assets (excluding rural households) reached 14,702.4 billion yuan, up by 4.0% year on year; and investment in fixed assets was up by 8.0% with the investment in real estate development deducted. Specifically, investment in infrastructure grew by 5.8% year on year, that in manufacturing grew by 8.8%, and that in real estate development declined by 10.3%. The floor space of newly-built commercial buildings sold was 282.62 million square meters, down by 2.8% year on year; and the total sales of newly-built commercial buildings were 2,703.5 billion yuan, down by 3.2%. By industry, investment in the primary industry increased by 13.2% year on year, that in the secondary industry up by 11.7%, and that in the tertiary industry down by 0.2%. Private investment increased by 0.2% year on year, or increased by 5.8% with the investment in real estate development deducted. In terms of high-tech industries, investment in information services, computer and office device manufacturing, aerospace vehicle and equipment manufacturing, and professional technical services grew by 40.6%, 28.9%, 23.9% and 17.6%, respectively. In April, investment in fixed assets (excluding rural households) increased by 0.10% month on month.

Fifth, imports and exports of goods kept growing and the trade structure continued to be optimized.

In April, the total value of imports and exports of goods was 3.84 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 5.6%. Specifically, the total value of exports was 2.26 trillion yuan, up by 9.3%. The total value of imports was 1.57 trillion yuan, up by 0.8%. In the first four months, the total value of imports and exports of goods was 14.13 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 2.4%. Specifically, the total value of exports was 8.39 trillion yuan, up by 7.5%. The total value of imports was 5.74 trillion yuan, down by 4.2%. In the first four months, the imports and exports of general trade went up by 0.6%, accounting for 64% of the total value of imports and exports. Imports and exports by private enterprises went up by 6.8%, accounting for 56.9% of the total value of imports and exports, which is 2.3 percentage points higher than that of the same period last year. The exports of mechanical and electrical products grew by 9.5%, accounting for 60.1% of the total value of exports.

Sixth, employment was generally stable and the surveyed urban unemployment rate declined.

From January to April, the average surveyed unemployment rate in urban areas remained flat year on year at 5.2%. In April, the national surveyed urban unemployment rate was 5.1%, 0.1 percentage point lower than that of the previous month. The surveyed unemployment rate of population with local household registration was 5.2% and that of population with non-local household registration was 4.8%, of which the rate of population with non-local agricultural household registration was 4.7%. The surveyed urban unemployment rate across 31 major cities was 5.1%, 0.1 percentage point lower than that of the previous month. Employees of enterprises nationwide worked an average of 48.3 hours per week.

Seventh, the consumer price index (CPI) fell slightly year on year, and the core CPI growth rate was stable.

In April, the CPI decreased by 0.1% year on year, and increased by 0.1% compared to the previous month. By category, prices for food, tobacco and alcohol went up by 0.3%; clothing up by 1.3%; housing up by 0.1%; household goods and services for daily use up by 0.2%; transportation and communication prices down by 3.9%; education, culture and recreation up by 0.7%; medical services and health care up by 0.2%; and other articles and services up by 6.6%. In terms of food, tobacco and alcohol, prices for fresh vegetables fell by 5%, grain fell by 1.4%, pork up by 5%, and fresh fruits up by 5.2%. The core CPI, excluding the prices of food and energy, grew by 0.5% year on year. In the first four months, the CPI went down by 0.1% year on year.

In April, the national producer price index (PPI) for industrial products went down by 2.7% year on year and 0.4% month on month. The purchasing price index for industrial producers went down by 2.7% year on year and 0.6% month on month. In the first four months, the national producer price and purchasing price indexes for industrial products both dropped by 2.4% compared with the same period last year.

Overall, in April, despite increased external pressures, the coordinated efforts of macro policies ensured steady and relatively rapid growth in major indicators, sustaining the upward and improving trend of the national economy. It should also be noted that external instabilities and uncertainties still remain significant, and the foundation for the continuous improvement of the national economy needs to be further consolidated. In the next stage, we must adhere to the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, resolutely implement the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and adhere to the general principle of seeking progress while maintaining stability. We must fully and accurately implement the new development philosophy, accelerate the construction of a new development paradigm, coordinate domestic economic work and international economic and trade efforts, unswervingly handle our own affairs well, unswervingly expand high-level opening up, focus on stabilizing employment, enterprises, markets and expectations, solidly promote high-quality development, and promote the continuous recovery and improvement of the economy. Thank you.

Zhou Jianshe:

The floor is now open for questions. Please identify your media outlet before raising your questions.

Jinan Times APP:

Has the macro policy package adopted in the first quarter begun to stimulate economic growth in April? How would you assess the overall economic performance in April? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. There has been considerable interest in April's economic performance. Overall, in April, the international environment became more complex and severe, external shocks increased, and the difficulty of sustaining a stable economic operation increased. Facing the rapidly changing and complex situation, under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee, all regions and departments conscientiously implemented the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, accelerated the implementation of more proactive and effective macro policies, strengthened the domestic cycle, and effectively responded to external shocks. As a result, the economy withstood pressure and maintained stable growth, continuing the trend of improvement. When I was reporting the main indicators of economic performance for April, everyone could understand this situation, which fully demonstrates the strong resilience and resistance of our economy. Based on key economic indicators, the following features can be observed:

First, production supply grew relatively quickly. In terms of industry, the combined effect of macro policies continued to release, and industry maintained relatively fast growth. In April, the value-added of industrial enterprises above the designated size increased by 6.1% year on year, which is relatively fast in terms of monthly growth rate since last year. Driven by intensified and expanded "two new" policies and industrial upgrading, the equipment manufacturing industry continued to grow rapidly, with its value-added increasing by 9.8% year on year in April. Its contribution rate to the growth of industries above designated size reached 55.9%. In terms of the service industry, under the influence of policies to expand domestic demand, it maintained a stable growth. In April, the service industry production index increased by 6% year on year, marking the second-highest monthly growth rate so far this year. The ongoing digital transformation, coupled with increased travel and transportation activities, has contributed to steady growth in information services, business services and related sectors. In April, the production indexes of information transmission software and IT services and leasing and business services increased by 10.4% and 8.9%, respectively, both significantly faster than the growth of the entire service industry.

Second, domestic demand expanded steadily. In terms of consumption, the policy to promote trade-in of consumer goods continued to show results, and market sales maintained steady growth. In April, total retail sales of consumer goods rose by 5.1% year on year. Sales of goods under the trade-in policy grew significantly, playing a notable role in supporting overall retail growth. Fueled by holiday and spring consumption, service-related retail sales maintained steady expansion. In the first four months, the retail sales of services grew by 5.1% year on year. In terms of investment, the effects of the policies related to major national strategies and the enhancement of security capacity in key areas ("two major initiatives") and large-scale equipment renewals and trade-in of consumer goods ("two new initiatives") have continued to emerge, with the scale of investment steadily expanding. From January to April, fixed-asset investment rose by 4% year on year. Driven by large-scale equipment renewals, investment in the purchase of equipment grew by 18.2% year on year from January to April, contributing 64.5% to the overall growth in investment.

Third, foreign trade demonstrated resilience. Despite rapidly changing international conditions and mounting external shocks, China stepped up efforts to diversify its foreign trade, actively expanded trade with countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and sustained steady growth in foreign trade, demonstrating strong resilience. From January to April, the total value of imports and exports of goods increased by 2.4% year on year, 1.1 percentage points higher than in the first quarter. Trade with BRI partner countries rose by 3.9%, up by 1.7 percentage points from the first quarter. Exports of electromechanical products maintained robust growth, increasing by 9.5% year on year in the first four months.

Fourth, the employment situation remained stable overall. China's stable economic growth and the expansion of new growth drivers, coupled with strengthened policies to support employment and entrepreneurship among key groups, contributed to overall employment stability. In April, the surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1%, down 0.1 percentage point from the previous month, marking the second consecutive month of decline. From January to April, the average surveyed urban unemployment rate was 5.2%, unchanged from the same period last year.

Fifth, new quality productive forces continued to grow. Support for innovation continued to increase, and high-tech industries maintained rapid growth. In April, the value added of high-tech manufacturing enterprises above designated size grew by 10% year on year. Specifically, the value added of aerospace equipment manufacturing and integrated circuit manufacturing rose by 21.4% and 21.3%, respectively. The driving role of "AI Plus" was further strengthened, and the digital industry thrived. The value added of large-scale digital product manufacturing rose by 10% in April. The green and low-carbon transition advanced steadily, and the new energy industry grew rapidly. In April, the output of new energy vehicles (NEVs) and charging piles increased by 38.9% and 43.1%, respectively.

Overall, in April, despite mounting external shocks, China's economy remained stable thanks to its solid foundation, multiple strengths, strong resilience and huge potential. With well-coordinated macro policies and proactive responses across all sectors, the national economy withstood challenges and operated steadily, while the quality of development continued to improve. This further strengthened our confidence and capacity to tackle various risks and challenges. That being said, we must also recognize that the international environment remains highly uncertain, with multiple overlapping risks, and the foundation for the domestic economic recovery still needs to be consolidated. In the next stage, we must thoroughly implement the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, adopt more proactive and effective macro policies, and focus on stabilizing employment, enterprises, markets and expectations. We will work solidly to promote high-quality development, strengthen the domestic economic circulation, and drive sustained and sound economic growth. Thank you.

CCTV:

The consumption data for April has attracted widespread attention. Could you tell us whether the overall recovery trend in the consumer market has continued? In terms of the consumption structure, which areas have seen notable growth? And which areas have room for improvement? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Since the beginning of this year, the international environment has been complex and severe, external challenges have increased, and some blockages and sticking points remain in the domestic economic cycle. Vigorously boosting consumption is conducive to effectively responding to external challenges, smoothing the domestic economic cycle, promoting economic improvement, enhancing people's livelihoods and increasing development vitality. All regions and departments have implemented the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee, intensified and expanded the implementation of the "two new" policies, carried out special actions to boost consumption, driven market sales expansion, promoted service consumption growth, and strongly supported economic recovery and improvement. In terms of the situation in April, the policy effects continued to be revealed, the consumer market has grown steadily, and new consumption momentum has developed and grown. The main features are as follows:

First, market sales steadily rebounded. Overall, the total retail sales of social consumer goods mainly based on commodity sales and the retail sales of services represented by service consumption both showed a trend of recovery. From January to April, the total retail sales of consumer goods increased by 4.7% year on year, 0.1 percentage point faster than in the first quarter. Service retail sales grew by 5.1% year on year, also accelerating by 0.1 percentage point compared with the first quarter, marking two consecutive months of acceleration.

Second, sales of goods related to the trade-in of consumer products saw significant growth. As the trade-in program for consumer products was expanded and intensified, it played a notable role in boosting the sales of related goods. In April, retail sales by units above designated size of household appliances and audio-visual equipment, cultural and office supplies, furniture, and communication equipment increased by 38.8%, 33.5%, 26.9% and 19.9% year on year, respectively. These growth rates were significantly higher than the overall growth of commodity retail sales and strongly supported the expansion of market sales.

Third, retail sales of certain essential and upgraded goods grew relatively quickly. The rising demand for higher-quality consumption among residents also contributed to the increased sales of related goods. In April, retail sales by units above designated size of grain, oil and food, sports and entertainment goods, and gold, silver and jewelry rose by 14%, 23.3% and 25.3% year on year, respectively.

Fourth, the consumption of tourism and travel-related services grew rapidly. Driven by strong travel demand during holidays, residents' consumption of tourism, travel and communication services has grown rapidly. From January to April, the retail sales of transportation services, communication and information services, and travel, consulting and rental services all maintained double-digit growth.

Fifth, the new drivers of consumption demonstrated a sound growth momentum. With the rapid development of information technology and the continuous improvement of the logistics distribution system, new forms of efficient and convenient business such as online retail and instant retail have proven popular with consumers. From January to April, the online retail sales of physical goods increased by 5.8% year on year, continuing to surpass the growth rate of total retail sales of consumer goods.

Overall, since the beginning of this year, policies have continued to take effect and market sales have continued to recover, but the internal driving force of consumption still needs to be further strengthened. In the next stage, we will implement special actions to boost consumption, continue to enhance residents' consumption capacity, increase high-quality supply, improve the consumption environment and better release consumption potential to promote healthy economic development and the continuous improvement of people's livelihoods. Thank you.

Bloomberg:

We're wondering, what is the expected impact of the China-U.S. agreement reached in Geneva on China's economic performance? And if tariffs remain at the current levels, what are your expectations for export growth, employment and domestic prices this year? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Since the beginning of this year, the international environment has undergone complex changes. The United States has taken a series of unilateral measures to impose high tariffs on China, severely impacting China-U.S. economic and trade relations. In response, China has taken resolute and strong countermeasures. From May 10-11, China and the United States held a high-level meeting on economic and trade affairs in Geneva, Switzerland, where both sides agreed to significantly reduce tariffs. In this context, there is considerable public interest in the trend and prospects of the Chinese economy.

Looking forward to the next stage, the international environment remains complex and challenging, with many unstable, uncertain and unpredictable factors. Domestic cyclical and structural contradictions are intertwined. However, the fundamentals sustaining China's sound economic growth have not changed. Various macro policies are making concerted efforts. All parties are focused on tackling challenges and actively responding to changes, and the driving force for innovation continues to grow. There are many favorable conditions for the continued recovery of the economy.

First, there is a foundation for recovery. Although the impact of external shocks increased in April, the trend of economic recovery has not changed. According to the major indicators, market sales and the service industry, which are closely linked to the domestic market, continued to rise steadily. From January to April, the total retail sales of consumer goods and the index of services production increased by 4.7% and 5.9%, respectively, both 0.1 percentage point higher than in the first quarter. The exports of goods and industrial production, which are more affected by the international market, remained generally stable. From January to April, exports increased by 7.5%, 0.6 percentage point higher than that in the first quarter; and the added value of industrial enterprises above designated size increased by 6.4%, maintaining overall stability.

Second, there is policy support. Since the beginning of this year, we have implemented more proactive and effective macro policies and increased policy support for the implementation of major national strategies and the building up of security capacity in key areas as well as the promotion of large-scale equipment upgrades and trade-in programs for consumer goods, expanding market demand, driving enterprise production, supporting innovative development and boosting market confidence, with the effects continuing to show. From January to April, the growth rates of major production and demand indicators were significantly faster than the whole of last year. Driven by large-scale equipment renewals, investment in the purchase of equipment increased by 18.2% year on year from January to April, contributing 64.5% to the total investment growth. Recently, relevant departments further cut the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) and interest rates, and established new policy-based financial instruments to support technological innovation and expand consumption. As various policies of the Party Central Committee and the State Council are gradually implemented, it will be conducive to the sustained recovery and improvement of the economy.

Third, there is consumption potential. All regions and departments have conscientiously implemented the decisions and plans of the Party Central Committee, vigorously carried out special actions to boost consumption, intensified and expanded the implementation of the policies of large-scale equipment renewal and consumer goods trade-ins, created diversified consumption scenarios, and actively expanded service consumption, with the effects continuing to emerge. In April, the retail sales of household appliances and audio-visual equipment, cultural and office supplies, furniture, communication equipment, and building and decoration materials related to the trade-in of consumer goods contributed 1.4 percentage points to the growth of total retail sales of consumer goods. From January to April, the retail sales of services increased by 5.1%, rising for two consecutive months. During the May Day holiday, the number of domestic tourists increased by 6.4% year on year. As the policies continue to take effect and consumption momentum continues to grow, the role of consumption in stimulating economic growth is expected to continue to strengthen.

Fourth, there is innovation momentum. All parties have actively promoted the in-depth integration of technological innovation and industrial innovation, promoted the transformation of technological creativity into social productive forces, and continued to reinforce the leading role of innovation, continuously injecting new momentum into economic development. The high-tech industries and emerging service industries have shown sound growth momentum. In April, the value added of high-tech manufacturing enterprises above designated size rose 10% year on year, 3.9 percentage points higher than that of all industrial enterprises above designated size. From January to March, the operating revenue of strategic emerging service enterprises above designated size increased by 8.3% year on year, maintaining rapid growth. The intelligent and green transformations of industries are accelerating, with the added value of the intelligent unmanned aerial vehicle manufacturing industry increasing by 74.2% in April, and the production of new energy vehicles (NEVs) increasing by 38.9%. Breakthroughs have been made in cutting-edge technology fields such as large AI models and humanoid robots, which will further promote industrial upgrading and development.

Overall, supported by multiple favorable factors, China's economy is expected to maintain overall stable performance and steady growth. Thank you.

ThePaper.cn:

Given that investment is an important part of expanding domestic demand, and you've just highlighted the sustained growth in fixed-asset investment, I would like to ask: what are the characteristics of fixed-asset investment currently? And how do you assess China's scope and potential for future investment? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Investment is an important component of domestic demand. Since the beginning of this year, all regions and departments have thoroughly implemented the decisions and arrangements of the Party Central Committee and the State Council, actively promoted large-scale equipment renewals and the trade-in of consumer goods, and actively expanded effective investment. Overall, the effects of promoting investment continue to emerge, and have the following main characteristics:

First, investment has maintained overall stable growth. As the policies of implementing major national strategies and building up security capacity in key areas, as well as the policies of large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins, continue to take effect, investment potential is continuously being stimulated, and investment in fixed assets remains stable. From January to April, investment in fixed assets grew by 4%. Driven by large-scale equipment renewal, investment in the purchase of equipment grew by 18.2% from January to April, contributing 64.5% to the growth of total investment.

Second, manufacturing investment grew rapidly. As China's industrial structure optimizes to meet mid-to-high end market demands, traditional industries are being transformed and upgraded, and emerging industries are developing rapidly, driving faster growth in manufacturing investment. In the first four months, investment in manufacturing increased by 8.8% year on year, significantly faster than the overall investment growth. Driven by industrial upgrading and development, investment in consumer goods production and equipment manufacturing showed good growth momentum. From January to April, investment in consumer goods production and equipment manufacturing increased by 13.4% and 8.2%, respectively.

Third, investment in high-tech services showed good growth momentum. The accelerated integration of technological innovation and industrial innovation has expanded demand for high-tech services, driving investment growth in related industries. From January to April, investment in high-tech services grew by 11.3% year on year, with investment in professional technical services and information services growing by 17.6% and 40.6%, respectively.

Fourth, infrastructure investment grew steadily. With the accelerated issuance and use of special local government bonds, the driving effect of government investment continued to emerge, and infrastructure investment maintained steady growth. From January to April, infrastructure investment grew by 5.8% year on year, faster than the growth of total investment. Specifically, investment in water conservancy management grew by 30.7%, and investment in water transportation grew by 26.9%.

Since the beginning of this year, the economy has been generally stable, and the policies that support major national strategies and enhance security capabilities in key areas as well as promote consumer goods trade-ins and large-scale equipment renewals have been paying dividends. Industrial upgrading and development have made positive progress, offering a solid foundation for expansion of effective investment. Looking forward, China's investment potential is still huge, and there are still many favorable factors supporting investment growth. First, there is ample space for industrial upgrading and development. The new generation of information technology industry is booming, and emerging industries represented by high-end equipment and artificial intelligence (AI) are developing well, with increasing investment in innovation. Second, major regional strategies are guiding and driving development. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the implementation of a series of major regional strategies have been accelerated. The coordinated development of urban and rural areas and new urbanization present huge investment potential. Third, there is still significant demand for investment in social development and livelihood improvement. Investment in livelihood improvement has been increasing, but there is still a gap compared with the needs of the people. At present, China attaches great importance to ensuring and improving people's livelihoods, continuously increasing investment in the social and livelihood fields, which is also conducive to sustained growth of investment.

However, it should also be noted that the internal driving force for investment growth is clearly insufficient. Therefore, it is necessary to implement the spirit of the Central Economic Work Conference and the "two sessions," by focusing on improving investment efficiency and continuously optimizing the investment structure. Increased investment will be leveraged to help expand demand and optimize supplies and thereby boost healthy and sustained economic development. Thank you.

Market News International:

Given the recent agreement between China and the U.S. in Geneva to reduce tariffs at a significant pace, do you expect a surge in exports to the U.S. over the next few months? And what is your outlook for trade performance for the rest of the year? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. China-U.S. trade and its impact on overall foreign trade are of great concern to everyone. In April, the external environment changed dramatically, increasing pressure on foreign trade. However, China's foreign trade overcame difficulties and maintained steady growth, demonstrating strong resilience and international competitiveness. From January to April, the total value of China's imports and exports of goods increased by 2.4%, accelerating by 1.1 percentage points compared to the first three months. In April, the total value of China's imports and exports of goods increased by 5.6%, with exports growing by 9.3%, maintaining rapid growth.

Specifically, foreign trade exhibited several features. First, the growth of imports and exports with ASEAN and Belt and Road partner countries accelerated. In April, despite a decline in trade with the U.S., overall foreign trade diversified, and accelerated imports and exports with ASEAN and Belt and Road partner countries strongly supported the continued growth of foreign trade. From January to April, the total value of imports and exports between China and ASEAN increased by 9.2% year on year, accelerating by 2.1 percentage points compared to the first three months; and China's imports and exports with Belt and Road partner countries increased by 3.9%, accelerating by 1.7 percentage points. Second, the growth of imports and exports by private foreign trade enterprises accelerated. In the face of external shocks, these enterprises actively responded and effectively coped through market diversification strategies, achieving clear results. From January to April, the imports and exports of private enterprises increased by 6.8% year on year, accelerating by 1 percentage point compared with the first three months, better than the overall foreign trade situation. Third, the export of mechanical and electrical products grew robustly. With the upgrading and development of China's industries, the competitiveness of technologically advanced mechanical and electrical products continuously enhanced, becoming an important growth point for exports. From January to April, the export value of China's mechanical and electrical products increased by 9.5% year on year, higher than in the first three months.

In the context of increased external shocks, China's foreign trade withstood pressure and continued to grow. First, this fact reflects the firm support provided by a solid industrial foundation. China has a complete industrial system. In particular, the manufacturing industry is being upgraded, occupying an important position in the global industrial chain, and gaining strong advantages in international competition. Second, it reflects the ability of the foreign trade industry to quickly adjust and respond. China has been steadily diversifying foreign trade, the ability of foreign trade enterprises to expand markets has been increasing, and these enterprises have shown strong ability to adapt to changes prompted by trade frictions and supply chain disruptions. Third, this resilience also reveals the supportive role of various policies to stabilize foreign trade. In the face of external shocks, various regions and departments have strengthened support for foreign trade enterprises and stepped up export tax rebates, financial support, trade facilitation and other policies, creating a policy environment for enabling the development of foreign trade.

In the next stage, the substantial reduction of tariffs between China and the U.S. will be conducive to the growth of bilateral trade and the recovery of the world economy. At present, the international environment is still complex and severe, and unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise, which has seriously impacted the international economic and trade order and restricted global economic growth. However, the trend of international cooperation for mutual benefit will not change, nor will China's firm commitment to expanding its opening up to the outside world. The diversification of foreign trade is steadily advancing, and policies to promote foreign trade are continuously taking effect, which will support the stable development of foreign trade. Thank you.

National Business Daily:

Just now, you mentioned multiple sets of data on the value added of industrial enterprises above designated size across the country. What are the characteristics of the value added of industrial enterprises above designated size nationwide in April? How do you evaluate the future development trend of the country's industrial production? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Industrial production is essential for stable economic growth. Since the beginning of this year, with the continued effectiveness of existing policies and the effective implementation of new policies, the policy mix has continued producing effects. Industrial production has maintained rapid growth, and the transformation of industrial development toward high-end, intelligent and green has provided strong support for high-quality economic development. The characteristics are as follows:

First, industrial production has maintained rapid growth. The combined effects of macro policies continue to emerge, and various regions are increasing efforts to promote industrial development, and industrial production has maintained steady and rapid growth. In April, the value added of industrial enterprises above designated size increased by 6.1% year on year. As mentioned earlier, this growth rate is relatively high among the monthly growth rates since last year. Expansion was reported in over 80% of China's major industrial sectors in April, with 36 out of 41 registering year-on-year growth.

Second, the industrial transformation and upgrading is continuing. The trend of high-end industrial development is clear, and the high-tech manufacturing industry has a good growth momentum. In April, the value added of high-tech manufacturing above designated size increased by 10% year on year, significantly faster than the growth of industrial enterprises above designated size. From the perspective of industries, the value added of integrated circuit manufacturing and optoelectronic device manufacturing increased in April by 21.3% and 19%, respectively. In terms of products, the output of 3D printing equipment and industrial control computers and systems increased in April by 60.7% and 29.5%, respectively.

Third, the new momentum of industrial growth continues to strengthen. The intelligent and green transformation of industry is accelerating, and related industries and products are growing rapidly. The development trend of the new energy industry is relatively good. In April, the output of NEVs and lithium-ion vehicle batteries increased by 38.9% and 61.8%, respectively. The production of intelligent products grew rapidly. In April, the value added of the intelligent unmanned aircraft manufacturing and intelligent vehicle equipment manufacturing increased by 74.2% and 29.3%, respectively, which was significantly faster than the growth rate of industrial enterprises above designated size. The output of industrial robots increased by 51.5%.

Fourth, the driving effect of policies for the large-scale renewal of equipment and the trade-in of consumer goods is evident. The intensification and expansion of the policies for the large-scale renewal of equipment and the trade-in of consumer goods has promoted technological upgrading in industries and the expansion of market demand, thereby facilitating the growth of industrial production. Driven by the equipment renewal policy, the output of primary processing machinery for agricultural products and special packaging equipment maintained double-digit growth in April; Driven by the trade-in policy, the output of products such as electric bicycles and LCD screens maintained rapid growth in April.

Overall, since the beginning of this year, industrial production has grown steadily and rapidly. This can be attributed to the continuous release of the effectiveness of macro policies, the boost from major national projects and programs, including those aligned with major national strategies, building up security capacity in key areas, and the large-scale renewal of equipment and the trade-in of consumer goods to stimulate the potential of domestic demand, as well as the influence of the continuous deepening of industrial transformation and upgrading and the enhanced momentum of innovative development. Looking into the future, the high-end, intelligent and green industrial development trend is clear, and new quality productive forces are constantly being cultivated and strengthened. However, it should also be noted that the prices of industrial products are still at a low level, and some enterprises in certain industries are still facing many difficulties in production and operation. In the next stage, we should continue to expand domestic demand, implement various policies to support industrial development, promote the integrated development of scientific and technological innovation and industrial innovation, optimize the industrial structure, accelerate the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries, cultivate and strengthen emerging industries, and promote the sustained and healthy development of industry. Thank you.

CNBC:

I have two questions. In April, foreign trade enterprises faced a rapid increase in tariffs and the suspension of orders. What impact did this have on the overall economic operation? And what impact did it have on employment? Also, how is the recent real estate situation in third- and fourth-tier cities different from that in first- and second-tier cities? What is your outlook? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. From the relevant data released earlier, it can be seen that China's economic operation remained generally stable in April. In April, as external shocks intensified, some foreign trade companies faced increased production and operation pressures. However, from the perspective of the overall economic operation, the main production and demand indicators maintained steady and relatively fast growth in April, and the employment situation remained generally stable. New growth drivers continue to grow, the green transformation is deepening, and the new and positive trend is sustained. There are many questions regarding this situation. Why can the Chinese economy maintain such steady growth despite external shocks? In the face of external shocks, China's economy has been able to withstand pressure and grow steadily. This can not only be attributed to its solid economic foundation, multiple advantages, strong resilience and great potential, but also to the coordinated macro policies and the proactive responses from all sectors. Moreover, it is the result of China's unwavering commitment to promoting high-quality development and accelerating the formation of a new development pattern.

First, the economic foundation is stable, there is ample space for development, and the capability to resist pressure is strong. "The Chinese economy is not a pond but an ocean." China has a super-large economy, ranking second in the world in terms of economic aggregate, and has maintained the world's largest manufacturing scale for 15 consecutive years. With a solid material and technological foundation, a complete industrial system and strong supporting capabilities, the foundation for economic development is solid. At the same time, China has huge market and broad space for development. With over 1.4 billion and a consumer market scale ranking among the top in the world, China has significant potential for improvements. These facts determine China's strong capabilities to cope with various risks and challenges.

Second, steady progress has been made in pursuing high-quality development, which provides an important guarantee for responding to changes with proactive steps. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the CPC Central Committee has taken a comprehensive view, accurately perceived the major domestic and international development trends, made significant decisions and deployments to promote high-quality development, unwaveringly promoted economic structure adjustment and renewal of driving forces, developed new quality productive forces according to local conditions, to effectively pursue higher-quality economic growth and appropriately increase economic output. At the same time, in the face of the increasingly complex and severe external environment, following the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee, we accelerated the construction of a new pattern of development, enhanced the resilience and security industrial and supply chains, and firmly grasped the initiative in development. These steps have provided important guarantees for China's economy to proactively respond to severe changes to the external environment.

Third, the intensified and effective macro policies have played a pivotal role in stabilizing the economy. On Sept. 26 last year, the meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee decisively deployed a package of incremental policies, effectively boosted social confidence, and significantly promoted economic recovery. This year, macro policies have become more proactive and effective. Both existing and new policies continue to exert force, significantly expanding demand, promoting production, supporting innovation and stabilizing expectations, playing a crucial role in maintaining stable economic operation. From January to April, the growth rates of total retail sales of consumer goods and the service industry production index both accelerated by 0.1 percentage point compared to the first three months, and the cumulative growth rates of fixed asset investment and value added of industries above designated size remained basically stable. In April, the transaction volume of the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges increased by more than 30%. In the face of challenges from external shocks, in late April, the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee held a meeting to make arrangements for the economic work, effectively enhancing confidence in social development.

Fourth, we have actively responded to changes against all odd and provided strong support for the stable operation of the economy. In the face of external shocks, all regions and departments resolutely implemented the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, made full use of fiscal and monetary policies, accelerated the issuance and use of local government special bonds and ultra-long-term special national bonds, further reduced reserve requirements and interest rates, promoted the early implementation key tasks and achieved real results, assisting the stable operation of the economy. For enterprises significantly affected by tariffs, the government has promptly increased efforts to assist and alleviate difficulties, effectively consolidating the micro-foundation of economic operations. In the face of the impact of increased tariffs by the United States, many foreign trade enterprises actively responded and took the initiative to expand diversified markets, promoting stable growth in foreign trade. From January to April, the growth rate of China's total imports and exports of goods accelerated by 1.1 percentage points compared to the first quarter.

All this demonstrates that China boasts a solid economic foundation, effective development, institutional advantages, strong policy support and a vibrant market. China is fully equipped and confident in responding to various risks and challenges. Thank you.

Jiupai News:

As mentioned just now, the CPI edged down 0.1% year on year in April, while the core CPI rose 0.5% year on year. What are the reasons behind this? How would you assess this phenomenon? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Changes in the CPI are also a major concern for the public. In April, the CPI declined slightly year on year, but shifted from a decrease to an increase on a month-to-month basis, continuing the overall trend of stability. On a year-on-year basis, the CPI dipped 0.1%, unchanged from the previous month. By category, prices rose in seven of the eight major groups, with most categories maintaining an upward trend. Only the price of transportation and communication fell, dropping 3.9%. The slight year-on-year decline in the CPI was mainly due to the impact of lower international oil prices on domestic prices. In April, energy prices fell 4.8% year on year, widening by 2.2 percentage points from the previous month. Gasoline prices dropped 10.4%, which pulled the CPI down by about 0.38 percentage point. On a month-on-month basis, the CPI rose 0.1% in April, compared to the 0.4% decrease in the previous month. The shift from a decline to a rise was mainly driven by rebounds in food and travel services. Prices for some meats, aquatic products and fresh fruits rose month on month, pushing food prices up by 0.2%. Driven by higher demand and the impact of holidays, prices for air tickets, vehicle rentals, hotel accommodations, and tourism grew between 3.1% and 13.5% month on month, contributing to the overall rise in the CPI.

Food and energy prices are more susceptible to short-term factors. To accurately track price trends, it is important to consider not only overall changes in the CPI but also changes in the core CPI. In April, the core CPI, which excludes food and energy prices, rose 0.5% year on year, about the same as the previous month. Service prices rose 0.3%, while prices for industrial consumables excluding energy increased 0.4%. Both growth rates remained essentially stable compared with the previous month. From a dynamic perspective, the core CPI increased by 0.3% year on year in January-February, 0.5% in March, and 0.5% in April, showing an overall steady upward trend. This reflects the effectiveness of macroeconomic policies and the growing impact of expanding domestic demand on prices.

However, it is important to recognize that current prices remain at a low level, which adds pressure to business operations and may affect employment and income growth for residents. Therefore, it is important to keep prices within a reasonable range. Next, we should continue to leverage the combined effects of macroeconomic policies, further expand domestic demand, deepen supply-side structural reforms, improve economic circulation and continuously regulate market order to promote a reasonable rebound in prices. Thank you.

Zhonghongwang.com:

Although the PPI declined year on year in April, we are seeing expanding macroeconomic policies to boost consumption, faster growth in high-tech industries, increasing demand in some sectors and positive price changes in certain areas. What are your thoughts on this situation? How do you assess and analyze the future trend of industrial product prices? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. In April, the year-on-year decline in the PPI widened, mainly due to falling international energy prices and price declines in some domestic industries. In April, the PPI fell 2.7% year on year, widening by 0.2 percentage point from the previous month. Although the PPI continued to decline year on year, prices in some sectors have improved thanks to intensified and effective implementation of macroeconomic policies, recovering market demand, and the rapid growth of new economic drivers.

First, demand in the high-end manufacturing sector has increased. Economic restructuring is advancing steadily, demand for high-tech products is expanding, and prices in related industries have risen to some extent. In April, prices for manufacturing wearable smart devices rose 3%, while aircraft manufacturing prices increased 1.3%. Driven by advances in intelligence and digitalization, manufacturing prices for some digital products are also rising. In April, prices for integrated circuit packaging and testing climbed 2.7%, while server prices rose 1%.

Second, the impact of policies aimed at boosting domestic demand is becoming stronger. The "two new" policies, which refer to large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-ins, are delivering positive results. Demand for some consumer goods and equipment manufacturing products is expanding, driving up prices in related industries and products. In April, the year-on-year price declines for household washing machines and NEVs narrowed by 0.3 and 0.2 percentage points, respectively, compared with the previous month. The year-on-year price declines for specialized equipment manufacturing for electrical machinery and machinery used in farming, forestry, livestock and fishing narrowed by 0.7 and 0.2 percentage points, respectively.

Third, supply and demand conditions in some traditional industries have improved. In April, year-on-year price declines in the ferrous metal smelting and rolling industry and the nonmetallic mineral products industry narrowed by 1.4 and 1 percentage points, respectively, compared to the previous month. These developments demonstrate that by fostering new quality productive forces and implementing the "two new" policies and the policies aimed at fulfilling major national strategies and enhancing security capabilities in key areas, we have improved the supply-demand dynamics of industrial products.

However, it is important to recognize that the PPI remains on a downward trend, and prices in some industries have fallen significantly, affecting industrial enterprises' efforts to increase profits. In response, it is necessary to continue expanding domestic demand, vigorously promote technological and industrial innovation, optimize and adjust production capacity and structure, and achieve a high-level dynamic balance between supply and demand. These efforts will help return industrial product prices to a reasonable range, improve business operations, boost development confidence, and promote sustained healthy economic growth. Thank you.

Zhou Jianshe:

I see that two more journalists have their hands raised.

Dazhong Daily:

In the current economic environment, the stability of the job market is essential. What are the key highlights and issues to watch in the April employment data? In response to employment difficulties, which areas should be prioritized going forward to promote job growth? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Employment stability affects every household. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council attach great importance to stabilizing employment and have introduced policy measures to promote high-quality, full employment. Support for enterprises in creating job opportunities has been strengthened, and employment for key groups, such as young people and rural migrant workers, has been prioritized. Since the beginning of this year, China's economy has maintained steady growth, industries have developed positively, and new growth drivers have continued to expand. In addition, policies supporting employment and entrepreneurship for key groups have been further intensified. Together, these factors have contributed to overall employment stability.

In terms of unemployment rate trends, the national urban surveyed unemployment rate rose in January and February due to the impact of the Spring Festival. However, as business activity and production picked up after the holiday and more migrant workers returned to work, labor market activity increased, resulting in a steady decline in the unemployment rate during March and April. Overall, the national urban surveyed unemployment rate has continued to decline steadily. In April, it stood at 5.1%, down 0.1 percentage point from the previous month and marking a decline for two consecutive months. Among key groups, the surveyed unemployment rates for both rural migrant workers and young people also declined. In April, the national urban surveyed unemployment rate for migrant workers with agricultural household registration was 4.7%, down 0.3 percentage point from the previous month. The rate for those aged 16 to 24, excluding students still in school, also declined for a second consecutive month.

Nevertheless, structural employment challenges remain significant. While young people continue to face considerable employment pressure, some sectors are still struggling to recruit workers, especially front-line skilled employees. The imbalance between labor supply and demand remains a significant challenge. Meanwhile, the complex and evolving external environment is also exerting pressure on China's labor market. Looking ahead, amid a complex and evolving external environment and growing uncertainties, we will remain focused on our own work and fully implement the decisions and plans set by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. We will intensify efforts to stabilize and expand employment, promote full employment, enhance employment quality, and continue working to safeguard and improve people's livelihoods. Thank you.

Zhou Jianshe:

One last question, please.

21st Century Business Herald:

Based on the data released this year, how would you assess the real estate sector's performance in April? What is the outlook for the sector's development going forward? Thank you.

Fu Linghui:

Thank you for your questions. Another reporter also raised this issue earlier, and I forgot to address it. The real estate sector remained basically stable in April. Of course, conditions vary across different regions, with cities showing distinct trends shaped by factors such as economic growth and population concentration. Overall, however, the real estate market has remained stable.

Since the fourth quarter of 2024, all localities and government departments have worked to implement the CPC Central Committee's decision to restore stability in the real estate market. A series of policies have been introduced to steady the housing market, help people meet their needs for adequate and improved housing, and reduce the cost of home buying. These measures have led to positive progress. Since the beginning of this year, these policies have continued to show results, and the real estate market has been gradually recovering and stabilizing. Based on April's data, the real estate market remained generally stable in both transactions and prices, with some first- and second-tier cities seeing increased transaction activity. The main characteristics are as follows:

First, housing market transactions remained broadly stable. As various policies aimed at stabilizing the property market continue to take effect, property sales have started to recover, with transactions in some cities showing positive trends. From January to April, the sales area of new commercial housing fell by 2.8%. The pace of decline narrowed 0.2 percentage point compared with the January-to-March period. Among 40 key cities, the sales area of new commercial housing increased by 0.1% year on year, while sales volume rose by 2%.

Second, overall housing prices remained stable. In April, across the 70 large and medium-sized cities tracked, sales prices for new commercial housing in first- and second-tier cities remained unchanged from the previous month. In contrast, sales prices in third-tier cities edged down slightly. From a year-on-year perspective, in April, the decline in commercial housing prices continued to narrow across all city tiers among the 70 large and medium-sized cities. Specifically, the year-on-year decline in sales prices for new commercial housing narrowed by 0.7 percentage point in first-tier cities, 0.5 percentage point in second-tier cities, and 0.3 percentage point in third-tier cities. Meanwhile, the year-on-year decrease in sales prices of secondhand homes narrowed by 0.9, 0.5 and 0.4 percentage point, respectively.

Third, housing inventory and new construction activity showed signs of improvement. As property sales have rebounded, real estate developers have reduced their inventories of commercial housing, and new construction activity has picked up. By the end of April, the area of commercial housing for sale had continued to decline compared with the end of March, marking the second consecutive month of decreases. From January to April, the year-on-year decline in the area of new housing construction projects narrowed by 0.6 percentage point compared with the decrease recorded from January to March.

Overall, as a result of various policies aimed at restoring and stabilizing the real estate market, the sector remained largely stable in April. Looking ahead, demand among residents for green, smart and safe housing continues to grow. There is also strong potential for upgrading old neighborhoods and improving the quality and efficiency of housing construction. Nevertheless, the overall property market is still undergoing adjustment and transformation. Demand for both first homes and improved housing has yet to be fully unleashed, and some regions continue to face significant pressure to reduce existing housing inventory. Continued efforts are needed to further stabilize the sector.

Moving forward, we need to earnestly implement the decisions and plans set by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, and proactively adapt to the significant changes in supply-demand dynamics in the property market. We will strengthen policy coordination, continue increasing the supply of high-quality homes, and actively promote urban renewal projects and the construction of government-subsidized housing. We will also accelerate the development of new growth models for the property sector to better meet people's aspirations for improved living conditions and to promote the steady and healthy growth of the real estate sector. Thank you.

Zhou Jianshe:

Today's press conference is hereby concluded. Thank you, Mr. Fu, and thank you to all our friends from the media. Goodbye!

Translated and edited by Zhang Jiaqi, Wang Xingguang, Liu Caiyi, Xu Kailin, Liu Sitong, Yang Xi, Liu Ziying, Zhang Tingting, Zhu Bochen, Huang Shan, Fan Junmei, Li Huiru, Ma Yujia, Li Xiao, David Ball, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

The State Council Information Office held a group interview Tuesday in Beijing on upholding a people-centered approach and advancing the rule of law in China. Five judicial administration representatives shared their stories.

Beijing now has 2,136 community healthcare service centers and stations, with all of its villages having access to medical services.

In recent years, the city has stepped up efforts to strengthen primary healthcare by encouraging community health service centers to establish specialized and professional departments. By 2024, more than 60% of these centers had set up rehabilitation departments, over 75% offered dental services, and over 95% provided diagnosis and treatment for children.

In addition, 231 community health centers had set up 498 specialized clinics to address chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.

The city has also launched a unified appointment and referral platform, allowing residents to book appointments at major hospitals and enabling community doctors to refer patients to higher-level facilities.

To further expand quality medical resources at the grassroots level, 51 leading hospitals have partnered with 156 township health centers to provide targeted support. In addition, 86 internet health clinics have been established to offer medical services in villages. Nearly 200 doctoral students of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are also serving in township clinics to provide TCM treatments.

The Global Digital Economy Collaboration Alliance was recently established in Beijing under the guidance of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economy and Information Technology and the Daxing District People's Government of Beijing Municipality.

Twenty-four business groups and firms, including the Euro-Sino Enterprises Association, the Export-Import Bank of China, China Telecom, Li Auto, and KPMG, joined as founding members.

The alliance is established with a mission of building a new digital globalization ecosystem and empowering enterprises to expand worldwide. Members will aim to establish service standards and evaluation frameworks for overseas expansion, regularly publish best practice case studies, align closely with international digital strategies and corporate needs, and jointly strengthen the global collaborative network for the digital economy.

The alliance is located at the Beijing Innovation Service Hub for Digital Economy Enterprise Going Global. Based in the Beijing Daxing Economic Development Zone, the hub is China's first government-led innovation platform dedicated to fostering global expansion for the digital ecosystem.

With the establishment of the alliance, the hub unveiled its four core innovation service stations to build a one-stop global expansion system covering management, data, technology, talent, and other essential elements.

Editor's Note: The UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing has opened "Liao Fei: Seeing All Forms," a major solo exhibition tracing almost 20 years of the Chinese artist's career. The exhibition, which runs through Sept. 7, 2025, is Liao's most comprehensive institutional showcase to date.

"Seeing All Forms" features sculptures, videos, installations and prints, grouped around five main themes: matter, site, extension, infinity and inference. The works reflect Liao's ongoing interest in material laws, perception and the philosophical boundaries of form.

This photo shows the entrance to the "Liao Fei: Seeing All Forms" exhibition at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, July 7, 2025. The show, organized around five main themes (matter, site, extension, infinity and inference), surveys nearly two decades of the artist's work. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo shows Liao Fei's video work "A Transitory Vacuum Sculpture" on display at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, July 7, 2025. In the piece, a line of toilet plungers gradually collapses, parodying the modernist ideal of the infinite column. With subtle wit, Liao questions the limits of lasting materials and human ambition. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo shows "Move No. 1" by Liao Fei at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, July 7, 2025. In this inkjet print, two stacked chairs sandwich blocks of ice, creating a delicate, time-based balance. As the ice melts, the collapse becomes inevitable, turning the installation into a live demonstration of gravity and impermanence. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo shows works from Liao Fei's "Chiral Extent" series at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, July 7, 2025. Inspired by Buddhist hand gestures and particle physics, the sculptures use materials such as gypsum and aluminum to create new forms. Their directional symmetry reflects the artist's exploration of how the human body can express meaning. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo shows the open layout of the "Liao Fei: Seeing All Forms" exhibition at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, July 7, 2025. Partition walls were removed to create a continuous, unobstructed space, reflecting Liao's vision of perceptual clarity. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo shows a close-up of Liao Fei's "Chiral Extent" series at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, July 7, 2025. The abstract forms use hands as modular units of expression, creating a visual language that mixes real objects with symbols. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo shows "Partially Obscured Circles II" by Liao Fei at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, July 7, 2025. The silkscreen and UV print features folded geometric lines and layered circles that create optical ambiguity while showcasing the artist's deductive approach to composition. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo shows a detailed view of the folding method behind Liao Fei's "Partially Obscured Circles" series at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, July 7, 2025. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo shows a wall display from Liao Fei's "Partially Obscured Circles" series at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, July 7, 2025. Each silkscreened work balances logic with a sense of calm. The compositions echo molecular and crystalline forms while maintaining a quiet, meditative feel. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

The distributors of "Mountains and Rivers Bearing Witness" announced on Monday that the documentary will open in Chinese theaters on Aug. 15 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-1945) and the World Anti-Fascist War.

A poster for "Mountains and Rivers Bearing Witness." [Image courtesy of Huaxia Film]

According to the filmmakers, the documentary presents the first panoramic portrayal of China's 14-year resistance war against Japanese aggression, highlighting the nation's pivotal role as the Eastern Front during World War II through its sweeping account of the Chinese people's heroic struggle.

The film is produced by Huaxia Film Distribution and China Central Newsreel and Documentary Film Studio (Group). Throughout production, the team behind "Mountains and Rivers Bearing Witness" focused on both historical accuracy and artistic expression, balancing clear historical narrative with the preservation of national spirit. 

Building upon extensive archival footage, the team used digital restoration techniques and artistic recreation to revive historical memories from sealed records and reconstruct pivotal moments in the Chinese people's resistance.

China will release various cultural works to mark the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, according to the State Council Information Office at a press conference in Beijing on June 24. "Mountains and Rivers Bearing Witness" was highlighted at the press event as a major project, alongside the war epic film "Dongji Rescue" and TV series "Our Homeland."

The Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was both the first to begin and the longest sustained conflict in the World Anti-Fascist War. With over 35 million Chinese soldiers and civilians killed or injured, this 14-year struggle culminated in victory over Japanese aggression and contributed to the complete defeat of global fascism. 

China has designated Sept. 3 as Victory Day to commemorate Japan's formal surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

A promotional poster for the Li Xiaoke art exhibition. [Photo courtesy of the Li Keran Art Foundation]

An exhibition featuring works by the contemporary Chinese artist Li Xiaoke (1944-2021) opened on July 2 at the Xizang Art Museum in Lhasa. The exhibition highlights Li's profound connection with Xizang, a region he visited 34 times throughout his life, inspiring much of his artworks.

The art exhibition displays a total of 90 works, comprising 50 ink paintings and 40 prints and will run until Aug. 23. Organized into three thematic sections, "Ink Homeland," "Traces of the Snowy Land of Xizang" and "Huangshan Mountain: Learning from Nature," the show comprehensively presents the artist's focus on Beijing, Xizang and Huangshan Mountain as his primary creative themes.

Li Xiaoke, the son of the prominent 20th-century Chinese artist Li Keran (1907-1989), was a renowned landscape painter. He studied traditional Chinese landscape painting from a young age, influenced by his artistic family background. His repeated visits to Xizang allowed him to capture the majestic sacred mountains and the lives of the local Xizang people through his brushwork. His works are noted for blending the essence of traditional Chinese painting with modern elements, reflecting his deep insights into life and nature.

"Sacred Land" (2016) by Li Xiaoke, one of the featured works in the exhibition at the Xizang Art Museum, Lhasa. [Photo courtesy of the Li Keran Art Foundation]

"Snow-Covered Plateau " (2016) by Li Xiaoke, one of the featured works in the exhibition at the Xizang Art Museum, Lhasa. [Photo courtesy of the Li Keran Art Foundation]

"This exhibition is Li Xiaoke's way of reporting back to the people of the plateau, showing his understanding and artistic portrayal of contemporary Xizang culture," said Han Shuli, honorary chairman of the Xizang Federation of Literary and Art Circles. He added that it is also a valuable opportunity for those in Xizang to engage with the artist's work.

Xue Liang, head of the Art Museum of Beijing Fine Art Academy , highlighted Li's pioneering efforts in using traditional Chinese ink brush techniques to explore new artistic expressions for the unique landscapes of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. He noted that the exhibition provides a panoramic view of Li's ink art, from his poetic memories of Beijing, to the misty peaks of Huangshan and his deep affection for Xizang.

Liu Ying, chairperson of the Li Keran Art Foundation and Li Xiaoke's widow, reiterated Li's love for the nature, culture and people of Xizang. She said that Li actively worked to promote Xizang culture throughout his life, and this exhibition not only serves as a report of his artistic contributions but also reflects the Li Keran Art Foundation's sustained efforts in the preservation and promotion of Xizang's cultural traditions and artistic growth.

The exhibition is supported by the China Central Institute for Culture and History , and jointly organized by the China Artists Association , the Xizang Autonomous Region Federation of Literary and Art Circles and the Beijing Fine Art Academy . It is undertaken by the Xizang Art Museum, the Xizang Autonomous Region Artists Association and the Li Keran Art Foundation.

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The China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) hosted a showcase of geographical indication (GI) products in Beijing on July 4, highlighting premium regional specialties as part of National Food Safety Publicity Week.

The China Geographical Indication Products Promotion Event is held in Beijing, China, July 4, 2025. [Photo courtesy of CCPIT]

The event aimed to boost public awareness of GI products — foods and agricultural goods known for their unique qualities linked to specific regions — and to promote the sustainable consumption of high-quality products with an emphasis on food safety.

Displays featured distinguished GI products 

Highlights included Fuding White Tea, wine from the eastern foothills of Helan Mountain, Yangxin Beef, Wuxi Hao Tea and Yellow River estuary rice. These items represent some of China's finest teas, wines, gourmet foods and specialty agricultural products from regions such as Shandong, Jiangsu, Ningxia, Guangdong, Guangxi, and Fujian.

CCPIT Vice Chairman Li Xinqian underscored in his keynote address that food safety is a cornerstone of national well-being and a top priority for consumers. He stressed that integrating China's premium GI products into the global agricultural supply chain is essential for promoting the sector’s development and strengthening the country's international competitiveness.

As of late 2024, China had certified 2,544 GI products, with their direct annual output exceeding 960 billion yuan ($133 billion), reflecting consistent year-on-year growth.

Li noted that the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) will take place in Beijing from July 16 to 20. The event will feature exhibition zones dedicated to the green agriculture and healthy living supply chains, showcasing leading products from various industrial segments. Organizers said these exhibits will demonstrate China's commitment to sustainable, high-quality supply chain development.

David Tao, widely known as the godfather of Mandarin R&B, will make his first full-length album in 12 years, "Stupid Pop Songs," available globally with the support of Universal Music Greater China (UMGC), the company announced Friday.

A photo of David Tao. [Photo courtesy of UMGC]

"Stupid Pop Songs" has been available on major digital platforms since April, with a physical worldwide release planned on July 11 through UMGC. The album is the first project under a new partnership among Tao, his company Great Entertainment and UMGC, a division of Universal Music Group. 

The 15-track album features Tao's blend of distorted guitars, raw vocals, sweeping ballads and experimental textures. Inspired by years of reflection, the release aims to challenge conventional pop with honesty, humor and soul, and encourages listeners to rediscover joy and authenticity in simplicity, according to UMGC.

"David Tao is one of the most visionary and influential figures in Mandopop history," said Timothy Xu, chairman and CEO of UMGC. "His music has shaped the genre and inspired generations with its emotional depth and artistic courage. We are proud to welcome David to the Universal Music family. This alliance underscores our long-term investment in iconic artistry and reinforces our commitment to expanding the global reach of Mandarin pop."

David Tao (left), recording artist and founder of Great Entertainment, and Timothy Xu, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China, pose in front of decorations featuring Tao's new album cover art. [Photo courtesy of UMGC]

Tao said music has always been a borderless and personal journey for him. 

"This new chapter with Universal Music allows us to bring our creative work to a broader global stage," Tao said. "I am grateful for the trust and alignment in vision, and excited to explore new possibilities with Universal Music Greater China to elevate Mandarin pop and share our stories with the world."

The singer has played a pivotal role in redefining the sound of Mandarin pop over the past three decades. Before launching his solo career, he was already an in-demand producer.

His 1997 debut album, "David Tao," won Golden Melody Awards and was recognized by Billboard as the best Asian singer-songwriter. The album featured hits such as "Love, Very Simple," which has been covered by artists internationally. Tao's early trilogy of albums — "David Tao," "I'm OK" and "Black Tangerine" — blended East-West sounds with emotional honesty, helping establish a new direction for Mandarin pop. 

Now in his 28th year in music, "Stupid Pop Songs" signals both a comeback and a bold reinvention, according to UMGC's press release.

Universal said it remains committed to promoting Chinese pop music internationally through its global network.

A screen displays real-time data and operations at the Bianshui Riverside Supercomputing Center, part of the Suzhou Computing Power Industrial Park in Suzhou city, Anhui province, July 5, 2025. [Photo by Xu Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]

Suzhou, a city in eastern China's Anhui province, is ramping up efforts to grow its computing power industry, with plans to build an industrial cluster expected to be worth 100 billion yuan ($13.8 billion).

Not to be confused with Suzhou in neighboring Jiangsu province, Suzhou in Anhui is seeking to become a regional center for advanced computing and data services.

At the center of this push is the Suzhou Computing Power Industrial Park, which opened in 2012 and spans about 15 hectares. The park is currently being expanded to include 100,000 square meters of data center facilities.

Equipped with extensive network infrastructure, the site serves major clients such as Huawei, QuantumCTek and Inspur, along with academic institutions including Tsinghua University, Peking University and the Beijing Institute of Technology. It also provides resources to research organizations specializing in atmospheric physics and automation.

The park supports sectors including big data, software development, mobile gaming, animation rendering and e-commerce livestreaming, according to Liang Xixi, a staff member at Suzhou Huarui Network Information Service, which helped develop the project.

Liang told China.org.cn that the park offers both supercomputing and intelligent computing services, which are used for distinct purposes.

"Supercomputing is used for high-precision tasks, such as tracking typhoon paths or analyzing protein structures, mostly serving research institutions," Liang said. "Intelligent computing, by contrast, is used in everyday applications. For example, animation rendering for games like 'Black Myth: Wukong' and films such as 'Ne Zha 2' relied on intelligent computing."

Key projects at the park include the Huaihai Intelligent Computing Center and the Bianshui Riverside Supercomputing Center. Plans are underway for additional facilities, including a China Mobile computing power center and a Baidu intelligent cloud computing center.

Suzhou currently hosts 465 enterprises related to the computing power sector, generating nearly 7.5 billion yuan in annual revenue. The city plans to increase its computing power capacity to 6,000 petaflops this year and aims to ultimately reach 8,000 petaflops.

Officials are also cooperating with partners across the Yangtze River Delta to establish an integrated computing power network that can meet rising regional demand.

The city will continue supporting integrated industrial development, according to the Suzhou City Development and Reform Commission. Priorities include a regional low-altitude intelligent computing center to improve flight route optimization and safety, as well as a data service platform for smart connected vehicles and tests of vehicle-to-road collaboration technology.

China's government work report this year highlighted intelligent connected new energy vehicles and emerging industries, including commercial aerospace and the low-altitude economy, as key areas for rapid development.

In eastern China, Anhui province is focusing on building up these new quality productive forces, aiming to promote the successful completion of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) through high-quality economic growth.

Smart EV industry gains momentum

Anhui has taken proactive steps to grow its smart electric vehicle industry as the automotive sector shifts toward electrification and new technology.

In April, the province issued trial guidelines for the management of road testing and demonstration applications of intelligent connected vehicles. Last year, Hefei, the provincial capital, was named one of China's first pilot cities for vehicle-road-cloud integration.

Robotic arms conduct an AI-powered quality inspection on a vehicle at the Maextro Super Factory in Hefei, Anhui province, China. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

A standout example is the Maextro Super Factory, a smart manufacturing plant in Hefei jointly developed by Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Group and Huawei. The facility integrates digital research and development with green, low-carbon manufacturing. 

The Maextro S800 flagship sedan debuted on May 30, with more than 500 ultra-luxury vehicles pre-ordered within 19 days, helping to fill a gap in China's domestic high-end car market.

Wei Dawei, director of the Maextro Super Factory, said the S800 features the industry's first independently developed intelligent digital chassis platform, enabling predictive control for bumpy roads and curves. It also uses Huawei's ADS 4 intelligent assisted driving system, which the company says cuts end-to-end latency by 50% and boosts traffic efficiency by 20%.

Expanding the low-altitude economy

Hefei is also moving quickly to grow its low-altitude economy. In June 2024, city officials rolled out a policy package to support the sector, offering up to 20 million yuan ($2.79 million) in annual funding and up to 100 million yuan in total for newly established low-altitude economy research institutions.

Today, more than 300 companies in Hefei are working in the low-altitude sector, building a complete industrial chain for drone R&D, testing, production and operations. The city has built China's first urban air mobility hub and launched more than 200 drone flight routes, providing services such as medical supply delivery, rail inspection and food delivery.

Hefei-based Hey Airlines became the first company in China to receive an operation certificate for autonomous passenger drones from the Civil Aviation Administration of China on March 28, marking the start of the country's first nationwide passenger drone service.

A pilotless EH216-S electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft is seen on a helipad in Hefei, Anhui province, China. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

To ensure safety, Hey Airlines' pilotless EH216-S electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft is equipped with backup systems for all key flight components. Each unit is fitted with its own security key and strong data encryption to prevent unauthorized access. The flight control system has a fail-safe feature that monitors the aircraft's health in real time and can trigger an emergency landing if needed.

Peng Sixuan, marketing director at Hey Airlines, said the company currently offers sightseeing services but plans to expand with options such as aerial weddings and hotel transfers, aiming to make air taxis a reality.

He said a cargo version of the eVTOL, which can carry up to 250 kilograms, is well suited for delivering supplies to remote or mountainous areas. The company also has a firefighting model designed for rapid response to high-rise urban fires.

Commercial space industry takes off

Anhui is also moving into the commercial space industry, with Bengbu city emerging as a key hub. Bengbu has signed agreements with 16 commercial space companies, with total planned investment reaching 5.52 billion yuan. The city is home to three major enterprises and two nationally recognized high-tech firms in the sector.

A view of the China Bengbu Commercial Aerospace Industrial Park in Anhui province, China. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The China Bengbu Commercial Aerospace Industrial Park, Anhui's first dedicated platform for the commercial space industry, opened on May 10.

The 0.43-square-kilometer park includes a center for space technology innovation, four production bases for rocket engines, satellite manufacturing, reusable spacecraft assembly and new material production, as well as multiple platforms for industry integration and applications. The project aims to build a major commercial aerospace manufacturing hub in the Yangtze River Delta region.

One of the companies operating in the new park is Lingkong Technology Co. Ltd. which provides design services for rockets and high-speed aircraft.

"Our company is focused on cultivating new quality productive forces. In 2024, our output value reached 45 million yuan, and we expect that figure to double this year," said Yang Wei, general manager of Lingkong Technology. "Our new plant in the industrial park has been completed and will be ready for move-in after final inspections and interior work."

Bengbu has established a comprehensive funding system to support commercial space companies at every stage of development, from seed and early growth to maturity. The total value of the fund cluster is expected to exceed 40 billion yuan this year.

The wait is over! Large crowds flocked to Legoland Shanghai Resort on July 5 as China's first and the world's largest Legoland theme park officially opened to the public. The grand opening welcomed children and families into a colorful world of creativity and adventure.

Crowds flock to the gate of Legoland Shanghai Resort as it opens in Jinshan district, Shanghai, July 5, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Legoland Shanghai Resort]

Nestled in Fengjing town, Jinshan district, the long-awaited resort aims to deliver the ultimate Lego adventure, designed for children ages 2 to 12 and their families.

"Our purpose at Merlin Entertainments is to bring people together to create memorable experiences for families around the world," Merlin Entertainments CEO Fiona Eastwood said at the opening ceremony.

"Today, we are taking that to the next level with the opening of Legoland Shanghai Resort, our first Legoland resort in China and in the second biggest theme park market in the world," she said. "This milestone represents a major step toward our ambition to be the global leader in branded entertainment destinations."

Eastwood said the Merlin team drew on nearly 20 years of experience in China to create Legoland Shanghai, blending the brand's global appeal with authentic Chinese cultural elements.

The resort is "both globally familiar and uniquely local," she said. "It's a place where kids can be their true selves and where parents can discover the magic of playing."

The new theme park and hotel cover 318,000 square meters and feature eight themed lands with 75 interactive rides, shows and attractions, along with thousands of Lego models built from more than 85 million bricks.

From thrilling adventures to hands-on activities, every part of the resort is designed to create lasting memories. About 10,000 workers and 300 teams from 15 countries contributed their creativity and expertise to bring the project to life.

Leaders, executives and partners attend the grand opening ceremony of Legoland Shanghai Resort in Jinshan district, Shanghai, July 5, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Legoland Shanghai Resort]

Highlights at the new park include the world premiere of the Lego Monkie Kid live show and a boat tour through a Lego-built Chinese water town. The Creative World area features Dada, a 26-meter-tall figure that is the largest Lego model ever built, as well as Miniland, which showcases detailed recreations of Chinese landmarks. Guests can also stay at the Legoland Hotel, which offers a range of activities to extend the park experience.

"Legoland Shanghai will be an integral part of the Lego ecosystem in China and a great addition to our retail network and brand events, enhancing the immersive and interactive Lego play experiences for our customers," Lego Group President and CEO Niels B. Christiansen said. "I look forward to Legoland Shanghai becoming a new cultural landmark for family interaction and bringing unique joy to all Lego fans in China and beyond."

Christiansen said the Legoland project also strengthens Shanghai's economic vitality and supports China's national strategy to boost domestic demand and promote high-quality growth in the tourism and cultural industries.

The opening also coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Denmark, highlighting the strong partnership between the two countries.

Zhuang Jian, chairman of Shanghai New Jinshan Investment Share Holding Group Co. Ltd., said Legoland Shanghai brings advanced international theme park management and rich cultural elements to the region. He said the park will inject new vitality into the tourism market in Jinshan and Shanghai and attract more visitors from both China and abroad.

Visitors flood the theme park on opening day at Legoland Shanghai Resort in Jinshan district, Shanghai, July 5, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Legoland Shanghai Resort]

The grand opening featured music, dancing and appearances by popular Legoland characters Mike and Amy. Performers in colorful costumes joined representatives from the Shanghai municipal and Jinshan district governments, including Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng, as well as investors and development partners.

The resort will host special events from July 5 to 13 to celebrate the opening, offering guests festive decorations, immersive experiences and exclusive offers — including daily shows, character meet-and-greets, limited-time minifigure swaps, special merchandise, discounts and Lego-themed treats.

The 36th Shanghai Tourism Festival Vacation Summer also kicked off on the same day, featuring more than 300 cultural events spread across six themed weeks. The launch highlights Shanghai's innovative approach to integrating cultural tourism by combining international brands with local festivals.

The resort aims to become a premier summer destination with its Lego-themed adventures, while working with nearby coastal areas, ancient towns and rural attractions to boost the region's overall appeal.

A former mansion with a storied past in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, has reopened as a movie-themed hotel, with the aim of becoming a new landmark in the city.

Left to right, Cheng Xinhua, founding partner of Movietel and chairman of Dossen International Group, and He Yan, founder of Movietel, pose for a photo at the transformed Bailu Mansion hotel, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo courtesy of Movietel]

Following a year-long restoration, the historic Bailu Mansion now serves as a unique cultural landmark where revolutionary history meets cinematic art, according to He Yan, founder of Movietel, which operates under Dossen International Group.

"Bailu Mansion hosted such historic figures as Zhou Enlai, Chiang Kai-shek, Zhang Chong, Pan Hannian and Mei Lanfang, making it far more valuable than ordinary buildings," He explained. "Through its transformation into a hotel, we aim to systematically showcase this historical legacy, allowing the public to physically engage with national memories rather than merely read about them."

The mansion's most historic moment came in 1937 shortly after the Xi'an Incident, when Zhou Enlai — later first premier of the People's Republic of China (PRC) — stayed at Bailu to conduct secret talks with Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling. These negotiations established the Second United Front between the Kuomintang (KMT) and Communist Party of China (CPC), forming China's united resistance against the Japanese invasion.

An exterior view of Movietel, the transformed historic Bailu Mansion, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo courtesy of Movietel]

Marking the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the restored site now features a Second United Front exhibition hall and preserves historic locations including the Panlong Gate where Zhou Enlai and KMT representative Zhang Chong took their historic photo. Other restored areas include Zhou's residence, the garden and former KMT provincial chairman's quarters.

"Bailu Mansion is a pivotal landmark where the KMT and CPC transitioned from confrontation to cooperation, symbolizing national unity during crisis," He explained. The exhibition helps younger generations better understand these historic decisions, while a film on the West Lake Talks is screened in both the exhibition hall and on the hotel's outdoor display to deepen public understanding of the historic event.

After the founding of the PRC in 1949, Bailu Mansion served as a guesthouse under the Hangzhou Railway Bureau before being designated a municipal-level cultural heritage site in 2009. When Hangzhou's West Lake District government and Zhejiang Railway Development Group launched urban renewal plans, they selected the building for transformation into a heritage hotel. Movietel's restoration followed "repair as old" principles — fixing walls, replacing tiles and restoring carvings, paintings and gardens.

A photograph of Zhou Enlai and Zhang Chong posing outside Bailu Mansion on display in the exhibition hall of Movietel, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo courtesy of Movietel]

Blending cinematic creativity with historical heritage, Movietel reimagines Bailu as a living film studio. Inspired partly by Zhang Chong — a KMT official and pioneer in China's early film industry as director of the KMT Central Film Studio — the hotel offers guests the opportunity to star in their own stories. They can meet script agents for assigned roles, receive full costume and makeup services, experience themed sets, enjoy private cinematic dining and stay in film-inspired suites — leaving with a personalized movie of their stay.

Movietel's founder He Yan noted that the property also serves as a shooting location for film and TV productions and hosts cultural industry events, including a recent salon co-organized by the China Film Foundation and Motion Picture Association during the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival last month.

A movie-themed suite at Movietel, transformed from the historic Bailu Mansion, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo courtesy of Movietel]

"Using Hangzhou as a model, we plan to expand this 'historic architecture plus cinematic immersion' format to neighboring cities and Beijing, keeping history alive through film while establishing new local film culture landmarks," He Yan said.

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For Zhao Guofu, life has taken an unexpected turn. After spending two decades as a migrant worker far from home, he returned to his roots, herding sheep as he once did in childhood, but this time, in his own neighborhood in Gonghe county, northwestern China's Qinghai province.

What greeted him was a landscape transformed. The once arid deserts had given way to rolling pastures, blanketed with rows of glistening solar panels. What he never imagined was that he would not only become part of China's solar energy push, but also thrive because of it.

Zhao Guofu speaks by solar panels in Talatan, Qinghai province, July 1, 2025. [Photo by Zhang Jiaqi/China.org.cn]

From June to October each year, Zhao grazes his sheep across the sun-drenched land, now shared with a sprawling solar farm. In between tending his flock, he picks up odd jobs cleaning the panels, earning extra income. The once-barren highland deserts of Talatan have been transformed into quality pastures, powered by clean energy — and Zhao's life has been transformed along with them.

Go cleaner, and greener

The transformation started in 2012, when construction of China's first 10 million kilowatt-class solar power base initiated in Talatan, an area blessed with nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine annually.

The solar farm built on arid and semiarid land unexpectedly stimulated rapid vegetation growth beneath the panels. Monitoring data shows that the panels helped reduced evaporation by 30%, cut wind speed by half, and boosted vegetation coverage to 80% within just three years.

The solar power base in Talatan, Qinghai province, on July 1, 2025. [Photo by Zhang Jiaqi/China.org.cn]

By the end of 2024, the base had expanded to cover around 420 square kilometers, hosting millions of solar panels with a grid-connected installed capacity of 17.73 million kilowatts. It is now the world's largest photovoltaic (PV) power park by installed capacity.

A win-win way

The cleaning of PV panels, a maintenance must, also contributed to vegetation growth. Data shows that the runoff water helps desert grasslands produce quadruple the fodder while supporting twice as many plant species compared to untreated areas. However, overgrown grass later began shading solar panels and creating fire risks in dry seasons.

A flock of sheep grazes at the Talatan solar power base, Qinghai province, on July 1, 2025. [Photo by Zhang Jiaqi/China.org.cn]

Talatan's PV operators devised an innovative fix: inviting local herders to graze sheep within the facility free of charge. Zhao was one of them who took up the call.

During summer and early autumn, herds freely forage beneath panels, with herders cutting residual grass for winter fodder. This lawnmower system eliminates fire hazards, saves weeding and feeding costs, while manure naturally fertilizes the revitalized soil.

Zhang Jingang, executive vice governor of the People's Government of Qinghai Province, called this an "agrivoltaic grazing" model. "Nature and neighbors both prosper under this agrivoltaic grazing model that pairs environmental protection with economic gains," Zhang explained.

Data from the provincial government shows that this innovative model has benefited 173 previously poverty-stricken villages.

For Zhao, apart from extra pay from solar panel cleaning and grass cutting sometimes, the yearly gross profits for herding sheep averages around 200,000 yuan ($27,900), but he is not sure about this year's net profits yet.

"It depends on how well the grass grows," Zhao explained. "Good vegetation means better profits, but I won't overgraze the sheep either way — protecting the ecosystem comes first."

Industrial synergy

Beyond benefiting local communities, Qinghai's clean energy also has boosted a greener computing power industry.

"Qinghai's strengths in natural resources and energy enable it to generate abundant, cost-effective green electricity and provide reliable renewable power for large-scale computing centers," said the executive vice governor.

Data from the provincial government shows that Qinghai boasted a 95% clean energy share in its 75 million kilowatts of installed power capacity last year, all Qinghai's computing centers are currently powered by over 90% green electricity, and province-wide computing power has grown 40-fold since the beginning of last year.

"Green power attracts green computing with its eco-friendly and cost-effective advantages, while green computing's massive energy demand efficiently absorbs renewable electricity," said Zhu Yuanqing, director of the electricity department of Qinghai's energy bureau.

Meanwhile, a PV industrial line has been established in the province, with considerations for the future: With PV modules expected to retire en masse post-2030, Qinghai has launched China's first industrial-scale recycling line, processing 4,000 metric tons annually while recovering 94.27% of high-value materials like aluminum, glass, and ultra-pure silicon.

"Renewable energy has become Qinghai's most competitive and promising pillar industry," Executive Vice Governor Zhang noted.

For local herders like Zhao, gone are the days of endless nomadic wandering. Now, he can corral his sheep during the day and return home to his wife and son in town by evening. A grin tugs at his lips as he talks about his new life — one where green energy has brought both prosperity and a sweeter, more stable life.

Attendees listen to a speaker at the AI Ecosystem Rainforest Conference in Beijing E-Town, July 2, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Beijing's Economic-Technological Development Area, known as E-Town, plans to become a regional hub for artificial intelligence, Wang Zhanshuo, deputy director of the area's administrative committee, said at the AI Ecosystem Rainforest Conference in Beijing on July 2.

The plan, dubbed the "Pan-AI-enabled City," aims to cluster more than 600 leading AI enterprises by 2025, launch 100 key application scenarios for public access, and boost the industry's scale beyond $11 billion.

Wang said the strategy will leverage E-Town's policies, including subsidies of up to $1.4 million for each domestically developed computing infrastructure project, and annual support of up to $13.8 million per enterprise that demonstrates competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. The area will also issue data vouchers worth $13.8 million to support data circulation and trading.

To promote real-world AI applications, E-Town will establish integrated hubs for culture, commerce, tourism and sports, and will focus on sectors such as education, elderly care and media.

Additionally, the "Magic World" AI community being developed by E-Town is offering companies ready-to-use facilities, free office space for the first year, and free high-performance computing power for the first month.

"E-Town's overall GDP growth has already reached double digits, with AI-related industries contributing more than $1.4 billion in new growth," Wang said. "The area possesses the key scenarios and socio-economic advantages needed for developing the AI industry."

Li Shizun, CEO of Johnsmith.ai, was among the first to move into Magic World. Li unveiled the company's new "Real-time Avatar," a digital human livestreaming technology, at the event.

The product uses eight AI agents to achieve 95% lip-sync accuracy, recognizes 98 types of user intent, and supports multilingual interaction.

According to test data, livestream rooms using the technology saw a 42% increase in user engagement time, a 25% rise in product click-through rates, and a 16% improvement in sales conversion rates.

Johnsmith.ai has already worked with global brands such as Lancôme and Estée Lauder, totaling more than 3 million hours of livestreaming and reaching a 96% client renewal rate in its fourth year.

"'Real-time Avatar' consumes 100,000 tokens per hour — five times that of a typical chatbot — but delivers sales performance surpassing top human hosts," Li said.

AI-powered avatars are also gaining traction in other sectors. Matthew Heller, CEO of 37 Partners, said his team has developed a platform that uses AI technology to help sports stars connect emotionally with Chinese fans, turning NBA athletes' intellectual property into personalized retail experiences.

"We're looking at generative AI avatars as a way to build those connections even deeper," Heller said. "These avatars will be digital twins of our celebrities, with one key exception: They'll speak the local language, so they'll speak Mandarin."

AI innovation is also transforming the fashion sector. Regina Zeng, CEO of Inno Baker, showcased AI applications across the industry value chain, from generating new designs with style transfer algorithms to enabling personalized advertising based on consumer profiles and brand style.

During a panel discussion, guests agreed that AI is evolving from an efficiency tool into a "commercial operating system." Li said digital human livestreaming has moved beyond replacing basic labor to creating new value, with the next breakthrough expected in emotional interaction.

Tian Ruifeng, director of industry innovation at the China Chain Store and Franchise Association, compared retail AI to a "rainforest ecosystem," adding that E-Town's policy practices are providing the necessary institutional framework needed to support the development and integration of AI across many sectors.

The inaugural BazaarGala brought together celebrities from the worlds of fashion and music for a two-day event in Shanghai's Jiading district on June 28-29, attracting over 30,000 attendees and generating more than 1.5 billion online engagements.

Zimomo from the Labubu franchise appears on stage with pop icon Jackson Wang during the 2025 BazaarGala in Shanghai, June 28, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SMG]

The event, organized by Shanghai Media Group (SMG) in partnership with Harper's Bazaar China and Warner Music China, featured a red carpet, awards presentation and concert.

On the first day, celebrities from the fashion, music, film and TV industries, including Amy Chen, Victor Ma, Mika Hashizume, Teens in Times (TNT), Victoria Song, Sun Nan, Tan Jianci, Jackson Wang, Wen Muye, Zhang Ruonan and even the global pop culture phenomenon Labubu, walked the red carpet, showcasing their style and generating significant buzz.

Pop group Teens in Times (TNT) perform during the 2025 BazaarGala in Shanghai, June 28, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SMG]

The gala celebrated excellence across multiple industries, honoring standout talents including Zhang Ruonan as the actress of charism, Wen Muye as influential director, and TNT as national group. The event crowned Jackson Wang and Victoria Song as BazaarGala King and Queen, respectively, while recognizing Tan Jianci with the fashion and music super icon distinction, and Sun Nan as national singer, among other recipients.

"I'm just doing my thing the best way I know how," pop star Jackson Wang said during his acceptance speech. His new album, "MagicMan 2," which he says reflects his journey of self-discovery, is set for release on July 18.

"Take care, and focus on yourselves first," Wang told the crowd at Shanghai International Circuit. "Honestly, we're all drowning in information overload every day — it's easy to lose sight of who we are. That's why I hope we in showbiz can give you positive energy. Let the stars you love uplift you when life gets hard."

The evening's notable moments also included Jackson Wang's onstage interaction with Zimomo, a character from the popular Labubu franchise.

Pop singer Mark Tuan performs during the 2025 BazaarGala in Shanghai, June 29, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SMG]

An ensuing concert featured high-energy performances by artists including Victor Ma, Liu Yu, Nana and Didi Ouyang, Qi Wei, TNT and Sun Nan, drawing enthusiastic responses from fans.

The event continued into the next day with a spectacular, genre-spanning eight-hour performance marathon featuring 10 acts, including Leon Chan, Mark Tuan, Sha Yiting, Shan Yichun, and Stringer.

Zhang Ruonan accepts the actress of charisma award during the 2025 BazaarGala in Shanghai, June 28, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SMG]

The two-day extravaganza featured approximately 100 artists and generated widespread attention on social media, with related hashtags appearing on hot search lists 113 times.

Tan Jianci accepts the fashion and music super icon award during the 2025 BazaarGala in Shanghai, June 28, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SMG]

Organizers said they have ambitious plans for future editions. "It was my vision to fuse music and fashion for innovation, breaking boundaries and setting new standards through premium production to establish a fashion benchmark for 2025," said Wang Xiaobai, general manager of the Entertainment Innovation Department at Trends Media Group and director of Harper's Bazaar. "This event will continue in the future, as its debut has generated exceptional anticipation."

Deloitte China announced 75 winners of the 2025 China's Best Managed Companies awards program in Beijing on July 4. The combined 2024 revenue of the winners hit approximately 3.2 trillion yuan.

Among those awarded, 12 are new winners, 13 platinum winners have received the award for seven consecutive years, 11 companies have won for five consecutive years and 6 for six consecutive years, with 33 other consecutive-year winners. 

"The winning companies this year cover multiple industries including consumer, industrial manufacturing, technology, life sciences, energy, real estate, education, and finance," said Zhao Jian, lead partner of the Deloitte China BMC Program. "The BMC program is not only a long-standing selection activity but also a platform and window for showcasing excellent enterprises.”

Wang Tuoxuan, Deloitte China North & West China managing partner said this year's BMC results demonstrate the strong vitality and adaptability of outstanding private enterprises under pressure.

"China's private economy is at a critical juncture of shifting growth drivers and enhancing resilience," said Wang. Despite complex and changing external challenges, a group of outstanding private enterprises have been embracing change, internalizing the national strategic direction of high-quality development, and accelerating new quality productive forces as the core driver for their transformation and upgrading.

As co-organizer and strategic academic partner of the BMC program, Professor Hui Kai-Lung, acting dean of HKUST Business School, added. "The deep resonance between excellent management practices and business education innovation is reshaping the growth paradigm of Chinese enterprises. These companies are not only industry benchmarks but also living textbooks for business education.”

"2025 is the final year of the 14th Five-Year Plan and the planning year for the 15th Five-Year Plan," said Liu Xiao, co-publisher of Harvard Business Review China (Chinese edition) in his interpretation of the BMC list. "Facing the dual challenges of global value chain restructuring and accelerating technological revolution, enterprises not only need technological breakthroughs, innovation in production factors, and deep industrial transformation and upgrading, but also a corresponding paradigm shift in development to foster the emergence of new quality productive forces."

With a history of 32 years and a network spanning nearly 50 countries and regions, BMC is co-launched by Deloitte, Bank of Singapore, HKUST Business School and Harvard Business Review, with an aim to find companies with systematic and excellent management capabilities.

Editor's Note: The UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing is presenting "Chen Ke: Bauhaus Unknown," an exhibition showcasing more than 60 works by Chinese artist Chen Ke that highlight the often-overlooked role of women in the Bauhaus movement.

Drawing on archival photos and Bauhaus-era styles, Chen Ke's exhibition focuses on the women artists who contributed to Bauhaus, a pioneering German school for modern art and design often defined by men. The show both explores art and reexamines history, asking which stories have been left out and whose achievements are remembered.

The exhibition runs until Sept. 7.

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows the entrance to the exhibition "Chen Ke: Bauhaus Unknown" at UCCA in Beijing. The show revisits the overlooked women of the Bauhaus weaving workshop, through paintings, works on paper and a felt mural. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows "Marianne and Lilies No. 1," an oil painting by Chen Ke. The work is based on an archival portrait of Marianne Brandt, a pioneering female metalworker at the Bauhaus, using color blocks inspired by woven textiles. Light and geometric patterns reference the weaving workshop and present Brandt as a symbol of elegance and resilience. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows "Factory No. 3," oil on metal board and aluminum by Chen Ke. The work blends imagined factory spaces with memory and abstraction, using color-blocked silhouettes to explore the nature of artistic and productive labor across past and present. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows "Unknown," a felt installation by Chen Ke at UCCA in Beijing. The mural, created specifically for the exhibition, draws from historic photos of Bauhaus masters and women weavers. Using color theory inspired by Josef and Anni Albers, Chen Ke reconstructs the figures into geometric compositions, paying tribute to the women who contributed to Bauhaus history. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows "Anni Albers Against a Woven Backdrop," an oil painting by Chen Ke. The work depicts Albers, who shifted from painting to weaving, with her face interwoven with abstract shapes that recall Bauhaus textiles, reflecting the fusion of her identity and artistic legacy. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows "Marianne Beneath a Clear Sky," an oil painting by Chen Ke. Marianne appears in an abstract landscape filled with clear light and Bauhaus-inspired colors. The composition softens architectural lines with an introspective atmosphere. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows "Anni in Dreamland," an oil painting by Chen Ke. In this portrait, Anni appears weightless among floating color planes, blending the formal rigor of Bauhaus with a dreamlike mood. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows "Creak Creak," a watercolor and acrylic work on paper by Chen Ke. One of her daily morning exercises, the piece captures the spontaneity of textile textures through delicate layers of pigment. Though modest in scale, it reflects the same conceptual rigor as her oil paintings. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows "Behind the Loom No. 1," an oil painting by Chen Ke. A blurred face behind loom threads suggests the anonymity of many female Bauhaus artists. The painting raises questions about who is seen and remembered in history. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows "Textile Mill Running Day and Night No. 1," an oil painting by Chen Ke. Colorful beams of light extend from lighthouses layered over weaving workshops, creating a pulsating, Futurist-inspired scene. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows "Nos. 1–20, Senecio and Prism," a watercolor series by Chen Ke. In these 20 works, she experiments with abstraction and pays tribute to early 20th-century artists Paul Klee and Sonia Delaunay, blending painting, design and textile art. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken July 2, 2025, shows "Marianne and Lilies No. 2," an oil painting by Chen Ke. The work, a continuation of an earlier portrait, features softer textures and subtler colors, reflecting Chen's evolving approach to her Bauhaus-inspired series. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

A display showing the smart manufacturing platform powered by "5G plus industrial internet" at a factory of Anhui Quanchai Engine Co. Ltd. in Chuzhou, Anhui province, July 3, 2025. [Photo by Xu Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]

In the competitive landscape of modern industry, staying agile and efficient is paramount. For Anhui Quanchai Engine Co. Ltd., a long-standing developer and manufacturer of engines in central China's Anhui province, the answer lies in a proactive leap into the future: a 5G-enabled industrial internet platform.

Step into a Quanchai workshop, a large digital screen displays real-time production data. Fei Chen, a section chief at the company, monitors the J1 production line, tracking everything from completion rate and cost consumption to product quality.

"We use large screens and digital dashboards to present production data, process parameters, equipment status and warning alarms in a centralized manner," Fei said. "This keeps managers constantly informed of production dynamics at all times, enabling refined management of the entire manufacturing process."

Quanchai's transformation goes deeper than just digital displays. The company has built a smart manufacturing platform powered by "5G plus industrial internet." It has established an intelligent factory that spans the equipment, network, platform and application layers. Supported by digital twin technology, it has achieved three-dimensional, visualized factory operations. The platform also integrates more than 850 upstream and downstream supply chain resources to enable cross-sector collaboration and optimized resource allocation.

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), Quanchai has prioritized digital transformation, developing a smart workshop model that connects foundational equipment with production execution, data analysis and decision-making.

The industrial internet platform has delivered tangible economic benefits. According to Xu Changyu, director of Quanchai's information center, the platform has markedly improved its R&D and manufacturing efficiency, shortening R&D cycles by 30% and enhancing production efficiency by 35%. Meanwhile, key performance indicators have improved, including a 12.6% drop in unit manufacturing costs and an 18% rise in inventory turnover.

The company's efforts have earned national recognition. In 2024, Quanchai was named an "excellence-level smart factory" by the national Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. 

The journey for Quanchai is far from over. Looking to the future, Xu said that with the rapid advancement of AI technologies such as DeepSeek, Quanchai will continue exploring the deep integration of AI and industrial internet platforms. The goal is to enhance intelligent capabilities and core competitiveness, ultimately evolving from a traditional manufacturer into a service-oriented provider of smart manufacturing solutions.

Global industrial technology leader Schneider Electric has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with QI-ANXIN, Beijing's leading cybersecurity firm, to establish the Schneider Electric (China) technology localization innovation center.

The multinational corporation's localization innovation center is now operational in the Economic-Technological Development Area, or Beijing E-Town, in southern Beijing, and will focus on in-depth adaptation services for domestically developed foundational software and hardware.

The flagship project contributes to Beijing's vision of building a globally competitive open innovation ecosystem and establishing itself as an international sci-tech hub.

Peter Weckesser, chief digital officer of Schneider Electric, said that China's industrial innovation is rapidly emerging and increasingly leading global trends across numerous sectors.

Schneider Electric is deeply integrating its localized R&D system with its global innovation network, focusing on the needs of the Chinese market to build a source of technological innovation, he said.

In addition to the vast application market, a vibrant pool of innovative talent, and strong innovation capabilities, a wealth of application scenarios have also become key factors that make global industry leaders optimistic about China's innovation potential.

"At Schneider Electric, an increasing number of innovations developed by the Chinese R&D team are not only serving China but are also being 'exported in reverse' to other countries," said Xiong Yi, senior vice president and head of strategy and business development of Schneider Electric's China arm.

Beijing's economy continues to grow steadily, while the city strengthens its position as a cultural and innovation hub, according to a series of think tank reports released Thursday by the Beijing Academy of Social Sciences.

One report entitled "China Capital Development Report (2024-2025)" shows that from 2010 to 2023, Beijing's overall development index, urban performance, and coordination between capital functions and urban growth have all steadily improved. 

Cultural development is also accelerating. Another report, "Beijing Cultural Development Report (2024-2025)," highlights the city's growing strength in integrating traditional and modern culture, promoting the application of technology in cultural sectors, expanding public access to culture, and enhancing soft power. In 2024, cultural enterprises above designated size in the city brought in 2.3 trillion yuan ($320.9 billion) in revenue, a 6.6% increase year on year.

Meanwhile, according to "Beijing International Exchange Center Development Report (2024-2025)," the city has improved its performance in international rankings, and its progress in smart city development and consumer modernization reflects a high level of internationalization.

Efforts to build Beijing into an international hub for technological innovation are also paying off. The city is seeing success in integrating digital technologies with traditional industries. It also ranks among the top cities in China for tech finance, with strong capabilities in innovation, industrial incubation, and applying technological advances.

According to Deng Lishu, editor-in-chief of "Beijing Economic Development Report (2024-2025)" and a researcher at the Beijing Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing's economy is entering a key phase of stabilization and recovery in 2025. Demand is expected to remain generally stable, while new growth drivers continue to build momentum. The layout of industrial and supply chains in advanced manufacturing is becoming more refined. The digital economy is evolving rapidly, and "AI+" applications are gradually being translated into real productivity. At the same time, the service sector will continue to play a stabilizing role in overall economic growth.

Beijing saw a remarkable improvement in consumer spending patterns in 2024, said Bao Lufang, editor-in-chief of "Beijing Social Development Report (2024-2025)" and director of the Institute of Sociology at the Beijing Academy of Social Sciences. As the economy, industries, and demographics evolve, emerging and diverse consumption trends - such as pet-related spending, green consumption, and products and services geared toward the elderly - are increasingly catering to more segmented needs, Bao said.

Beijing is also working to become a more inclusive city for new types of workers. In 2024, the share of labor compensation in per capita disposable income continued to rise, reflecting the effective implementation of employment-first policies. The city is improving its employment service system while fostering new industries, business models, and job categories to stabilize and expand employment opportunities.

The China (Beijing) Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ) has reached new milestones in reform and opening-up as the capital city marks the fifth anniversary of the "two zones" initiative, city officials announced Thursday.

The "two zones" initiative refers to Beijing's initiative for building the pilot free trade zone and the national comprehensive demonstration zone aimed at further opening up the service sector. 

Significant progress has been made in science and technology innovation. In Haidian district, Zhongguancun has built a state-of-the-art AI computing cluster, and its chip design sector ranks among the largest in the city. The district has developed one industrial cluster valued at over 1 trillion yuan and four others each worth hundreds of billions. By 2027, the number of clusters worth hundreds of billions is expected to exceed seven.

Changping district, with a focus on biomedicine and health, has launched China's first international research hospital and achieved breakthroughs in synthetic biology manufacturing. Today, it is home to more than 10 top-tier research institutions and over 2,000 pharmaceutical and healthcare companies, boosting total revenue in the district's biomedicine and health sector to over 100 billion yuan.

Beijing has also made major progress to further improve business services. Over the past five years, this has led to Chaoyang's CBD attracting nearly 60,000 new businesses and over 10,000 foreign-funded institutions. 

Shunyi has become China's leading hub for rare disease drugs, receiving over 40% of such imports into the country. Tongzhou is advancing green finance and carbon trading platforms, with cumulative carbon trading volumes exceeding 2.1 million metric tons and transactions totaling more than 180 million yuan by the end of June.

In high-end industries, Daxing district, benefiting from FTZ policies, has welcomed over 7,800 enterprises with combined revenues of 150 billion yuan. 

Beijing E-Town has emerged as a center for advanced technology sectors such as commercial space, AI, and biomedicine. Currently, about one out of every three foreign research and development centers in Beijing is located there. In 2024, Beijing E-Town attracted $1.26 billion in actual foreign investment, accounting for 43.8% of the Beijing FTZ's total.

Editor's Note: The Frogman Art Gallery at Beijing's China World Mall concluded its largest exhibition on June 30, featuring nearly 200 works by 15 renowned European and American artists. Titled "Contemporary Echoes," the show opened on June 5 to mark the gallery's 21st anniversary and aimed to reflect contemporary tastes among Chinese art lovers.

This photo, taken on June 30, 2025, shows the preface to the joint exhibition "Contemporary Echoes" by European and American artists at the Frogman Art Gallery in Beijing, reflecting the gallery's mission to preserve cultural heritage. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken on June 30, 2025, shows a cobalt blue sculpture of a peacock by British artist Stephen Page. Drawing inspiration from prehistoric carvings and minimalist abstraction, the piece combines symbolic meaning with geometric elegance. His animal forms are archetypal rather than naturalistic, conveying quiet monumentality and spiritual stillness. Created using the lost-wax technique and finished with vivid patina, the piece conveys a sense of timelessness. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken on June 30, 2025, shows works by British artist Doug Hyde, featuring stylized, round-headed characters inspired by domestic life and universal human emotions. Hyde's brightly colored, simple yet expressive figures offer viewers a direct emotional connection, emphasizing optimism, hope, belonging and everyday kindness. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken on June 30, 2025, shows sculptures by British artist Doug Hyde, known for his signature characters with rounded heads, oversized feet and small eyes inspired by his personal life. As one of Britain's most commercially successful artists, Hyde's figures reflect deep affection for human intimacy, community and happiness behind their simple outlines. His figures celebrate life's ordinary moments. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken on June 30, 2025, shows a sculpture from Marty Goldstein's "Harvey Dogs" series. Goldstein, who began sculpting after retirement, created his canine bronzes as tributes to his pets and other dogs he remembered. Many of these sculptures have been placed in pediatric hospitals to help children heal emotionally. This playful dog, with wide eyes and curled tail, conveys warmth and the healing power of innocence. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken on June 30, 2025, shows "Black Panther White Wings," a bronze sculpture by American surrealist Michael Parks. Born in 1944 and influenced by philosophical exploration, Parks infuses his work with mysticism and paradox. This piece contrasts animal strength with angelic weightlessness, conveying tension between physical power and spiritual elevation. The panther, poised yet dynamic, becomes a metaphor for human inner duality. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken on June 30, 2025, shows "Venus," a 2008 giclee print by Michael Parks. Drawing from Renaissance ideals and surrealist influences, the figure stands not as a goddess of ideal beauty but as a vessel of inner tension: longing, restraint and transcendence. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken on June 30, 2025, shows "Long Journey," a 2017 oil painting by Lithuanian artist Arunas Zilys. Layered with religious undertones, the work evokes a spiritual voyage through textured pointillism and glowing palettes reminiscent of stained glass and sacred manuscripts. The piece explores the individual's struggle for redemption within the broader arc of cultural memory. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken on June 30, 2025, shows "Reclining Woman in Red," a 2018 oil painting by Armenian American artist Yuroz. Trained in both art and architecture, Yuroz constructs his canvases like blueprints of emotional geometry. The reclining figure conveys both vulnerability and strength, with red symbolizing passion and defiant resilience. The painting shows the complexity of women's lives, with the strong upper body symbolizing confidence in public and the sensual curves and thoughtful expression reflecting inner struggles between family and work. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

This photo, taken on June 30, 2025, shows "Latent Space," a 2023 acrylic on canvas by French artist Jean-Luc Feugeas. A mathematician and musician, Feugeas approaches painting as a dialogue between chaos and control. The figure holds a mask with a downturned mouth, symbolizing weariness with falsehood. The walking stick suggests he hides his true self while facing conflicts between his inner feelings and outer reality. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

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Take in the summer splendor of Kanbula in northwestern China's Qinghai province. Officially added to the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network in April, the geopark boasts spectacular Danxia landforms documenting Earth's evolutionary history.

Chinese filmmaker Chen Sicheng has produced and written a new film, "Malice," which explores how manipulation works in the court of public opinion and examines the gray areas of human nature through a suspenseful criminal case.

The cast and crew of "Malice" pose for a photo at the film's premiere in Beijing, June 30, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Table Film]

"How to film isn't what matters most now — it's what to film," Chen said at the film's premiere in Beijing on June 30. "Cinema has been around for more than 100 years, so there is little room left for technical breakthroughs. What matters is what we choose to film, how creators engage with our times and express their viewpoints. I believe it's crucial to speak from the heart."

"I've faced constant misunderstandings and labels since my early acting years," said Chen, the filmmaker behind blockbusters such as the "Detective Chinatown" series.

"The world is changing too fast, and we have to keep innovating," he said. "In today's mobile internet era, everyone wields a sword in the court of public opinion."

Chen said there are no clear villains in the film — or rather, everyone becomes a villain if they've ever had malicious thoughts about others. "That's why I see this more as a social experiment than a traditional film," he said. "It looks at the moral grayness of human nature."

"Malice" is directed by Lai Mukuan and Yao Wenyi, and stars Zhang Xiaofei, Mei Ting, Chen Yusi and child actor Yang Enyou. The story centers on mysterious deaths at a hospital after a young internet celebrity battling cancer and a nurse fall from the building. The influencer's mother, who accuses the nurse, is later revealed to be hiding secrets.

Zhang plays a journalist searching for the truth while grappling with her own controversial reporting history, as her editors push for clicks over facts. The case leaves all the characters scarred by malice, urging viewers to uncover what really happened.

Discussing his collaboration with Zhang, Chen said: "Zhang Xiaofei is an actor full of ambiguity and unpredictability. While audiences first knew her from comedies, she has remarkable versatility. Her mix of feminine intellect and strength matches the journalist's character, and she brings out the complexity needed to show the layered truths of human nature."

Chen praised each actor's performance, noting how their vivid ensemble work brought realism to the film.

Zhang said she hopes "Malice" will prompt audiences, herself included, to pause before reacting online. "Don't rush to spread emotions or pass judgment in cyberspace. 'Malice' aims to inspire viewers to share more goodwill online — that kindness may be what dissolves malice," she said.

A poster for "Malice." [Image courtesy of As One Production]

"Malice," expected to strongly resonate with internet users, will open in theaters across China on July 5 as one of the summer's most anticipated releases. The film will also debut in the United States on the same day.

"While the film presents a world filled with malice, it ultimately offers kindness and deep understanding to every character," said Wang Hongwei, producer, script consultant and professor at Beijing Film Academy. "This is Chen Sicheng's most serious work to date as both director and producer — not just serious, but courageous. He dares to expose the pain points of our current media environment and boldly confronts creative taboos through each character's portrayal."