Harbin, the icy gem of northeast China, has transformed into a global hotspot as the 9th Asian Winter Games kicks off, sparking a frenzy of tourism and consumer activity 🏂. From souvenir shops to packed hotels, the city is buzzing – and economists say it’s all part of China’s strong economic start to 2025.
At the heart of the action? Over 1,700 official Games-themed products, from plush mascots to sleek apparel, flying off shelves. ‘Sales for some items are up 5-6 times compared to usual,’ shared Gao Fei, a merchandise lead, in an interview with CMG 📊. ‘Hot items sell out within hours!’
Travel app Ctrip reports a jaw-dropping 388% spike in Harbin tour bookings during the event, with international visitors soaring – including a 157% surge in overseas travelers from Russia, the U.S., and Southeast Asia 🌏✈️.
This energy isn’t just local. China’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.5% year-on-year in January, per the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). While the Producer Price Index dipped slightly, experts blame temporary factors like Lunar New Year factory slowdowns 🏮. ‘CPI growth reflects holiday demand for services, food, and energy,’ explained NBS chief statistician Dong Lijuan.
For young professionals and travelers alike, the takeaway is clear: China’s economy is heating up – even in the coldest cities. 🚀
