In July 2021, Beijing, alongside four other cities, was approved to spearhead the construction of international consumption center cities. This July, the newest achievements of the city in this regard were released at a press conference dedicated to the 3rd anniversary of the start of the construction of Beijing into an international consumption center city.
Over 3,700 First Stores Introduced to Beijing
Beijing, continuously optimizing and expanding the consumption supply, has accredited 26 regional headquarters of multinational companies in the consumption sector, attracted over 3,700 first-shops to settle in Beijing, and developed 26 "Midnight Diner" characteristic food streets. Since the establishment of China's first payment service zone for foreign visitors in Beijing, the coverage rate of POS terminals that accept overseas bank cards has exceeded 95 percent in the key business districts, scenic areas, and 4-star (or higher) hotels. Meanwhile, over 1,000 shops eligible for offering departure tax refunds can be found in the city's main business districts, ranking first in China.
Iconic Programs Release Potential of Cultural and Tourism Consumption
Over the past three years, Beijing has nourished a batch of iconic cultural and tourism programs, such as the Universal Beijing Resort and Beijing (Tongzhou) Grand Canal Cultural Scenic Area, with the latter being a national 5A-level tourist attraction. In addition, Beijing now has five National Demonstrative Holistic Tourism Destinations including Yanqing, Huairou, Pinggu, Changping and Mentougou districts, 14 National Nighttime Cultural and Tourism Consumption Agglomeration Areas including Qianmen Street, and five National Tourism Leisure Blocks such as Taikoo Li Sanlitun. In 2023, Beijing ranked first among all major cities in China in total tourism income.
Over 100,000 Sports Events of Various Categories Held in Beijing
In the past three years, Beijing, as the Dual-Olympic City, has hosted more than 100,000 sports events of various levels and categories, such as the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final, providing more high-quality international competitions. The consumption concerning ice and snow has become a trendy hot spot. Beijing attaches great importance to the building of ten new landmarks of sports consumption such as Shougang Park, Wukesong, the new Worker's Stadium, and Beijing Olympic Park. The city's sports, culture, and tourism industries have been thriving in integration.
(Source: Beijing Daily)