Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the sluggish recovery of consumer spending in China, indicating that while there is potential for growth, consumer confidence and willingness to spend remain low due to various underlying issues [2][4]. Group 1: Consumer Data Analysis - In July, the total retail sales of consumer goods reached 38,780 billion yuan, showing a year-on-year growth of 3.7% but a month-on-month decline of 0.14% [3]. - The retail sales of consumer goods excluding automobiles amounted to 34,931 billion yuan, with a growth rate of 4.3% [3]. - From January to July, the total retail sales of consumer goods were 284,238 billion yuan, reflecting a growth of 4.8% [4]. Group 2: Consumer Confidence and Willingness - The consumer confidence index was reported at 88.03 in June 2025, indicating a weak state compared to the historical average of 124.6 in 2019 [5]. - The increase in household savings, with a balance of over 160 trillion yuan, suggests that while consumers have the capacity to spend, they prefer saving due to uncertainties about the future [4][5]. - Factors such as inadequate social security, high living costs, and barriers to consumption (e.g., housing and vehicle purchase restrictions) contribute to the lack of consumer willingness [5][6]. Group 3: Unlocking Consumption Potential - China has a significant consumption potential, with 75% of it yet to be realized, necessitating reforms to enhance the ability, willingness, and ease of consumption [6][7]. - To improve the "ability to consume," reforms in income distribution and labor compensation are essential, alongside addressing wage arrears for migrant workers [7][8]. - Enhancing consumer confidence requires stable social security measures and government policies to reduce precautionary savings and encourage spending [8]. Group 4: Addressing Consumption Barriers - The article emphasizes the need to eliminate restrictive policies on purchasing homes and vehicles to unlock potential consumer demand [8]. - Improving product quality and service standards is crucial for meeting the unmet needs of middle and high-income consumers [8]. - Strengthening consumer rights protection and enhancing the legal framework to address issues like price transparency and counterfeit goods are necessary for fostering a secure consumption environment [8].