中国人为什么不敢消费？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges facing China's domestic consumption, highlighting the reliance on foreign trade and the need for stimulating domestic demand amid economic uncertainties and declining consumer confidence [2][8]. Economic Environment and Income Expectations - Social consumption is closely linked to the economic environment and income expectations, with a significant decline in disposable income growth post-pandemic [9][10]. - High-income sectors such as real estate, finance, and internet have faced salary cuts and job losses, leading to reduced consumer confidence and increased savings [10]. Social Security System - Although progress has been made in China's social security system, significant out-of-pocket expenses remain in healthcare, education, and pensions, particularly affecting middle and low-income families [3][11]. Income Distribution and Wealth Gap - There are notable income disparities across urban-rural, regional, and sectoral lines, with a small high-income group and a larger low-income group that lacks purchasing power despite having consumption needs [4][12]. - Wealth distribution in assets is increasingly concentrated among a few, while ordinary workers' income growth lags behind economic growth, reducing their marginal propensity to consume [5][12]. High Housing Prices - Housing remains a significant financial burden for many, with a large portion of household income allocated to mortgage repayments, limiting disposable income for other consumption [6][14]. - This issue is particularly acute in first and second-tier cities, where the price-to-income ratio is high [14]. Insufficient Policy Incentives - China's economic growth has historically relied on infrastructure and real estate investment, diverting funds away from consumer welfare, resulting in a low proportion of domestic consumption in GDP [7][15]. - Current tax reduction policies have limited coverage and effectiveness, particularly for middle and low-income groups, highlighting the need for structural reforms to enhance consumer spending [15].