Many Chinese cities support nighttime economy to drive economic growth

Aerial photo taken on July 31, 2019 shows an international night market in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province. Nighttime economy has become a hot word this summer. It refers to business activities between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. in the service sector. Many Chinese cities, especially metropolises such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, have rolled out plans to support nighttime consumption to drive economic growth. China's GDP grew by 6.3 percent in the first half of this year, and consumption accounted for 60 percent, which continued to be the first driving force for the country's economic growth. Among them, nighttime consumption shows giant potential, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Nighttime economy has become a new engine to enhance the city's vitality and promote China's development. It meets people's expectations, motivates industrial and commercial enterprises, and spurs the enthusiasm of local governments. (Xinhua/Pan Yulong)