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CNBC's The China Connection newsletter: Businesses scramble to reach China's growing experiences economy
CNBC· 2026-02-18 04:00
Core Insights - The Lunar New Year holiday in China is driving significant travel and spending, with a notable increase in demand for immersive cultural experiences and entertainment options [2][3][5]. Travel and Tourism - Bookings for theme park hotels have nearly doubled year-over-year, and demand for trips featuring traditional performances and artisanal crafts has risen by approximately 40% [3]. - China is anticipating a record 110 million trips in and out of Beijing and 9.5 billion trips nationwide during the broader travel season, indicating extensive travel among its 1.4 billion population [5]. - The H World Group reports increased demand for both major transport hubs and leisure-focused cities, such as Xishuangbanna, known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage [6]. Entertainment and Leisure - iQiyi has opened its first theme park in Yangzhou, emphasizing the importance of offline entertainment as a growth driver for the company [9][10]. - Bilibili's annual expo sold out quickly, showcasing the popularity of interactive experiences based on animated shows and games [11]. - Universal Studios Beijing plans to incorporate themes from popular local media into visitor activities, aiming to attract more guests during the holiday season [11]. Consumer Spending Trends - Despite a general slowdown in consumer spending, with retail sales growing only 0.9% in December, luxury brands like Louis Vuitton continue to expand their presence and create shareable experiences [13][14]. - Shopping malls are featuring luxury brands that align their offerings with the upcoming Chinese zodiac symbol, indicating a focus on emotional and experiential spending [14].