Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant decline in consumer spending in China, highlighting the challenges faced by various sectors and the underlying economic and social factors contributing to this trend [1][2][3]. Economic Data - National retail sales growth for the first half of 2025 was only 2.7%, marking a new low and a 6 percentage point drop compared to pre-pandemic levels [1]. - The actual growth rate, excluding price factors, was nearly stagnant at 0.4% [1]. - Restaurant revenue growth in Q1 2025 was just 1.3%, significantly below historical averages [2]. - Clothing retail sales fell by 3.5% and home appliance sales dropped by 5.2% in the first half of 2025 [2]. Income Pressure - The actual growth rate of per capita disposable income for the first half of 2025 was 3.2%, lower than GDP growth, indicating pressure in the job market and stagnant wage growth [3]. - Job cuts and salary reductions are common in traditional industries and small businesses, directly affecting consumer spending [3]. High Debt Levels - The average debt-to-income ratio for urban households reached 66.3% by Q1 2025, with mortgages accounting for 62% of total debt [4]. - Young adults under 30 in major cities have a staggering debt ratio of 78.5% [4]. - High mortgage payments significantly limit disposable income for families, reducing their ability to spend on non-essential items [4]. Education Expenses - Urban families spend an average of 26.7% of their annual income on children's education, with this figure exceeding 30% in major cities [5]. Consumer Confidence - The consumer confidence index stood at 94.3, below the neutral line of 100, indicating a lack of confidence in future income and job prospects [6]. - Increased savings, with a 15.3% year-on-year growth in deposits, reflects a cautious approach to spending amid economic uncertainty [6]. Structural Changes - The aging population, with 18.3% of the population aged 65 and above, is shifting consumption patterns towards necessities like healthcare, reducing demand for discretionary spending [7]. - A declining birth rate, with only 9.56 million births in 2024, is impacting demand for major consumer goods [7]. Shifts in Consumption Habits - The rise of e-commerce and food delivery services has led to a significant shift from offline to online shopping, with online retail sales reaching 6.7 trillion yuan in the first half of 2025, growing by 10.5% [8]. Diverging Consumption Trends - The market is experiencing a "bimodal" consumption structure, where high-end products remain stable while budget-friendly options gain popularity, reflecting widening income disparities [9]. Strategies for Adaptation - Businesses are encouraged to pivot towards niche markets and enhance product quality to meet changing consumer demands [12][14]. - Embracing digital transformation and optimizing operational efficiency are crucial for survival in a challenging market [15]. - Consumers are advised to adopt rational spending habits and prioritize financial planning to navigate the economic downturn [16]. Long-term Perspective - The current consumption slump is seen as a necessary phase in China's economic transition, emphasizing the need for businesses to adapt and innovate [17]. - A more rational consumer mindset may lead to healthier financial habits and contribute to long-term economic stability [17]. Conclusion - Despite the overall decline in consumer activity, there are still opportunities for businesses that can effectively identify and cater to specific market needs [18].