Digital technology has enabled more consumer formats to flourish across China, allowing consumers to enjoy a richer and more diverse supply of products and services through a simple touch on the screen.
In southwest China's Guizhou Province, special agricultural products including bamboo shoots, spicy dried peppers, sweet and sour pickled fish are on hot sale in various online livestream rooms.
In Tiantai Town, Chishui City, local authorities collaborated with a university to establish the first local rural revitalization research and practice base, where artificial intelligence technology is being explored to boost e-commerce livestreaming.
"I hope that through AI technology, we can reduce the operating costs of our livestream rooms, extend the time of livestreams, bring in more traffic, and help our villagers sell more agricultural products," said Dai Xiaoyong, Party secretary of Xinghong Village.
Meanwhile in urban area, the integration of online and offline shopping has also allowed many shopping centers to expand new ways of sales promotion.
In Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, many stores in shopping malls have opened livestream sessions, allowing customers to learn about their latest products without leaving home. Some malls have also launched new mobile apps, through which shoppers can place orders for delivery and make appointments for pickup, all in one stop on the phone.
"Now customers can learn about products and place orders online while enjoying our store services at the same time. This mode can also meet the needs of customers tight on time who just want to grab and go. It's more convenient for them," said Wang Dan, a salesperson.
Digital technology empowers online shopping, new consumption modes in China
Digital technology empowers online shopping, new consumption modes in China
China is opening its doors wider than ever as it welcomes more and more international travelers with its expanded visa-free policies, giving a growing number of a foreign visitors the chance to come and experience the country's culture, convenience, and modern vitality first-hand.
Last year, China recorded more than 30 million visa-free entries, up nearly 50 percent from the previous year thanks largely to the expansion of a unilateral visa-free scheme which now covers 50 countries, as well as a 240-hour visa-free transit policy which allows visitors to stop over en route to a third destination.
On one of Beijing's oldest commercial streets, visitors from around the world were seen taking a walk, grabbing a bite, and diving into Chinese culture.
"It's an absolutely perfect country, with absolutely lovely people and a very interesting history. I've bought a book on the legends and myths of China -- very, very interesting," said Aleksandr Shoshin, a Russian visitor.
"The culture in China is incredible. The history in China, [going back] 5,000 years, and the history is still living. The traditions that the people are pursuing are still alive," said Ali Sarem-Aslani, a tourist from Germany.
For many outside visitors, the level of public safety is another big factor encouraging them to travel to China. The country ranks among the world's safest countries with one of the lowest crime rates, and public satisfaction with security has hovered above 98 percent for many consecutive years.
This strong sense of security is leaving a lasting impression on international travelers.
"First of all, I think the top priority is that the lifestyle here is so much safer. So I think safety is top notch," said Asfand, a Pakistani tourist.
Alongside the country's colorful culture and traditions, tourists are also getting to experience how the its advanced development and modern vitality is transforming life and bringing extra convenience to their trips.
Authorities in the Chinese capital also recently launched a one-stop integrated service platform called "Go Beijing" to better facilitate the stay of overseas visitors, providing tips and services on dining, accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, shopping, entertainment, and public services.
"The culture in China is incredible. The history in China, [going back] 5,000 years, and the history is still living. The traditions that the people are pursuing are still alive," said Ali.
"I use Alipay. I go to restaurants. I don't need to talk with people. I just make my order, and everything is paid, so it's very convenient," said Ruben Tomaz, a Portuguese tourist.
China's visa-free policies spark surge in inbound tourism
