China targets foreign tourists for Lunar New Year ‘consumption feast’

South China Morning PostEN 2 min read 100% complete by Mandy ZuoFebruary 18, 2026 at 02:00 PM

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To stimulate its economy, China is targeting international tourists during the extended Lunar New Year holiday (February 10-23) to boost consumption. A joint initiative by nine government departments aims to transform the holiday into a “consumption feast.” This effort seeks to revive sluggish domestic demand following slow retail sales growth and deflationary pressure. Plans include increasing international flight capacity, improving foreign payment options, and providing multilingual guides to promote cultural tourism. The initiative also focuses on boosting domestic spending through shopping vouchers and trade-in programs. The Lunar New Year, a key consumption period, is expected to drive economic growth with its unusually long nine-day holiday.