africa.chinadaily.com.cn
China's International Consumption Centers Show Strong Growth
China's five designated international consumption centers—Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Tianjin, and Chongqing—have seen remarkable growth, with tax refund sales accounting for 70% of the national total, driven by improved services and infrastructure, attracting 4.25 million inbound visitors to Shanghai alone in the first half of the year.
- How has the improvement of tax refund services and payment systems impacted inbound tourism in these cities?
- China's initiative to cultivate these five cities as international consumption hubs reflects a broader strategy to boost domestic spending and compete with global cities like New York and London. The 94.6% year-on-year increase in tax refund shopping revenue in the first six months of the year demonstrates the policy's effectiveness.
- What are the key factors contributing to the success of China's five designated international consumption centers?
- Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Tianjin, and Chongqing have significantly advanced as international consumption centers in China, with sales from tax refund shopping in these five cities accounting for 70% of the national total. This success is attributed to improvements in payment convenience and tax refund services, attracting more foreign visitors.
- What are the potential long-term economic and social implications of developing these cities as international consumption centers?
- The focus on digital, green, and healthy consumption, coupled with the debut of 12,000 new stores in four years, positions these cities for continued growth in the international consumption sector. The substantial increase in inbound tourism, exemplified by Shanghai's 38.5% year-on-year rise in overseas visitors, indicates a strong potential for future expansion.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative frames the development as a significant success story, emphasizing positive statistics and official statements. The headline (if there were one) would likely highlight the achievements and growth, potentially overshadowing any potential drawbacks. The positive quotes from officials and the president of the China Tourism Academy reinforce this positive framing.
Language Bias
The language used is generally positive and celebratory, employing terms like "significant achievements," "bright spot," and "steady growth." These terms carry a positive connotation and could be replaced with more neutral phrasing such as "substantial progress," "positive trend," and "consistent expansion."
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the positive aspects of the development of international consumption centers in the five Chinese cities, neglecting potential negative impacts such as environmental concerns, displacement of local businesses, or the potential for increased inequality. There is no mention of criticisms or challenges faced during this development. Omission of these perspectives limits a complete understanding of the situation.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a largely positive view of the development, without acknowledging potential downsides or alternative approaches. It implicitly frames the development as unequivocally positive and beneficial, neglecting nuanced considerations.
Sustainable Development Goals
The development of international consumption centers in five Chinese cities has led to increased sales revenue, job creation in retail and tourism sectors, and economic growth. The rise in inbound tourism further boosts economic activity and employment.