Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, commended China's robust consumption market during the Spring Festival on Monday. This statement was made during a press briefing ahead of the CPPCC's annual session scheduled to open on Tuesday.
Highlighting that the year 2025 marks the first Spring Festival since its inclusion in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Liu emphasized the unprecedented box office revenues and the highest number of moviegoers recorded. He also lauded the seamless integration of traditional culture with high technology.
The spokesperson noted that the upgraded visa-free policy significantly contributed to a surge in inbound arrivals during the Spring Festival, achieving a remarkable 150 percent year-on-year increase. This influx underscores the festival's growing appeal and economic impact.
With the successful inscription of the Spring Festival, China now boasts 44 cultural elements or practices on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, the highest number globally. Liu remarked that this achievement showcases the profound charm of China's rich traditional culture.
Reflecting on the past year, Liu recalled that CPPCC members conducted thematic investigations in regions such as Shandong, Shanxi, and Henan. They engaged with front-line cultural and museum workers to discuss and evaluate important projects, including initiatives to trace the origins of Chinese civilization, and offered valuable suggestions.
To foster a correct understanding of the Chinese nation's history, the CPPCC published \"100 Facts on History and Culture of Community for the Chinese Nation,\" a book that delves into the extensive exchanges and integration among China's diverse ethnic groups through 100 topics.
Looking ahead, Liu affirmed that the CPPCC will persist in promoting excellent traditional Chinese culture, strengthening the people's spiritual foundation, and building a cultural base to support the nation's strength and rejuvenation.
