China's digital economy continues to redefine consumer behavior, with household spending through online platforms reaching 9.37 trillion yuan ($1.3 trillion) in the first half of 2025 alone. This represents 46.5% of total household consumption, according to a landmark report from the China Internet Network Information Center released this week.
The study reveals 958 million active digital consumers as of June 2025 – equivalent to 85.3% of the nation's internet users. Analysts note this digital transformation is accelerating innovation across retail, entertainment, and financial services sectors.
Business leaders point to integrated technologies like AI-powered recommendation systems and seamless mobile payment infrastructure as key growth drivers. "What began as pandemic-era necessity has evolved into permanent consumer preference," observed one Shanghai-based market strategist.
For investors, the figures underscore China's rapid transition to a tech-driven consumption model. The report highlights emerging opportunities in rural e-commerce expansion and cross-border digital services, particularly in Southeast Asian markets.
