Gasgoo Munich-On February 11, the State Council Information Office held a press briefing. The Ministry of Commerce and other agencies outlined plans for the 2026 "Happy Shopping" Spring Festival campaign. With the holiday break starting this Sunday, authorities have coordinated a series of events and high-impact policy packages designed to unlock consumer spending.
Image credit: ZEEKR
Sheng Qiuping, Vice Minister of Commerce, highlighted a "triple gift package" for consumers:
First: Boosted trade-in subsidies. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Commerce, alongside the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Finance, allocated the first tranche of state subsidies totaling 62.5 billion yuan to local governments. During the nine-day holiday, regions will ramp up distribution, making it easier for consumers to claim these benefits.
Second: An invoice lottery pilot. The Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Finance, and State Taxation Administration are launching a pilot program in 50 cities that rewards invoices with prizes. The plan earmarks 10 billion yuan in prize money over six months, with more than 1 billion yuan up for grabs during the holiday alone. Residents in these pilot cities can enter the lottery by submitting invoices over 100 yuan for purchases like shopping, dining, travel, or accommodation.
Third: Integrated financial and payment incentives. The People's Bank of China and the National Financial Regulatory Administration are directing banks and payment providers to team up with merchants. Together, they will roll out exclusive "Happy Shopping" offers across categories including airfare, hotels, dining, and attraction tickets.
On the service front, authorities are rolling out a suite of measures. Commerce officials are guiding supermarkets to stock up and run promotions. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of gas stations will be transformed into "New Year Supply Stations" offering hot water, emergency medicine, and other conveniences.
Culture and sports agencies are encouraging museums and performance venues to extend hours, while public sports facilities will offer discounted access. Meanwhile, civil aviation and railway authorities are boosting capacity and introducing services like luggage delivery to ease travel.
By combining policy with activity, this "Happy Shopping" campaign aims to ensure steady market supplies during the holidays while delivering tangible value and convenience to residents and tourists alike.
