business

This Holiday, Mooncake Vouchers Fuel a Secret Gray Economy

Timely reports on issues and events from across China. Drawing on a vast range of sources, these succinct articles provide insights into the significance of each issue in a wider context.

NEWS

Originally meant to simplify gift-giving, vouchers to buy mooncakes, a traditional Mid-Autumn Festival treat, now fuel a booming gray market with scalpers profiting from multiple resales.

Fan Yiying

Huawei Takes a Bite Out of Apple With Rival Phone Launch

The tech giants are going head-to-head in China by launching new handsets on the same day. And the momentum appears to be with Huawei.

Ding Rui

Taobao Plans to (Finally) Allow Users to Pay Via WeChat Pay

The move is the latest signal that the era of “walled gardens” in China’s tech ecosystem is drawing to a close.

In China, Drones Are Now Delivering Takeout to the Great Wall

The new airdrop service is part of China’s push to quickly develop its “low-altitude economy.”

Ye Zhanhang

Zheng Qinwen: China’s Tennis Ace Wins On and Off Court

Translations, cross-publications, and collaborative projects from Sixth Tone’s external partners. 

SIXTH TONE ×

After winning gold in the women’s singles at the Paris Olympics, Zheng and the brands that backed her look set to reap the commercial rewards.

Jiemian News

Shanghai Wants to Integrate AI Into Everything — Even Wet Markets

Shanghai is trying to reinvent community wet markets for the 2020s. That means better hygiene, trendier stalls, and AI-powered smart scales.

As Hair Loss Grows Among Gen Z, So Does China’s Wig Industry

Whether facing hair loss, seeking better styling options, or embracing cosplay, young Chinese across the country are driving a surge in demand for wigs.

Not All Fun and Games: Collectible Card Craze Grips China’s Youth

As a new collectible card trend sweeps the country, there are concerns that the hobby is fueling addictive tendencies among children.

Li Xin

Lin Liuhan

In China, AI Enters a New Arena: The Civil Service Exam

Tutoring candidates to ace China’s civil service exams has become a lucrative industry in recent years. Now, companies are rushing to integrate artificial intelligence into their services.

Baidu’s Mass Robotaxi Rollout Stirs Heated Debate in China

Hundreds of Baidu’s Apollo Go robotaxis are now operating on the streets of Wuhan, but it has been far from a smooth ride.

As Summer Vacation Begins, Museum Fever Grips China

Chinese museums are experiencing a surge in demand this summer, with tickets selling out days in advance.

From ‘Hire Me’ to Better Call Tang, the Quirky World of Metro Ads

To diversify declining revenue streams, one city metro launched a personalized ad service earlier this year, allowing individuals to purchase ad space for messages ranging from birthday greetings and job searches to marriage proposals and quirky jokes.

Chinese Cities Roll Back Pandemic-Era Tourist Site Ticketing Systems

Since 2020, tourist attractions across China have used online ticketing systems that require real-name registration. But the unpopular policy is finally being scaled back in some areas.

He Qitong

In Historic Move, Chinese Province Adds Tesla to Procurement List

Jiangsu province has become the first local Chinese government to allow public-sector organizations to purchase Tesla cars — a move that has sparked heated debate in China.

Bilibili Bets Big on Booming Ultrashort Drama Market

The Chinese streaming platform has announced plans to release 20 “premium” ultrashort dramas this year, as the genre continues to move into the mainstream.

Why China’s Small Merchants Are Checking Out of Mega Shopping Fests

Articles that cut to the core of contemporary China. In-depth, informed, and carefully crafted, every piece is carried by the voices of the story’s participants.

FEATURES

Frustrated by high return rates and dwindling profits, small merchants are questioning the long-term viability of discount-driven shopping festivals. Some are even opting out and returning to more traditional business models.

Starting a New Job in China? It Might Involve a 60-Kilometer Hike. 

Some companies are forcing new hires to take part in military-style boot camps to “foster team spirit.” But is the practice even legal?

Ding Xiaoyan

Paris 2024: Why Chinese Brands Are Betting on Sports Over Stars

Chinese brands are increasingly turning to athletes for endorsements before the Olympics, seeking to avoid the pitfalls associated with celebrity scandals and capitalize on the positive image of sports figures.

In China, Starbucks Feels the Heat From Homegrown Coffee Chains

Amid a dip in sales driven by competition from affordable local brands, Starbucks is under fire for high prices and lower service quality. In response, the company is upping efforts to enhance customer experiences and tailor its product offerings.

In China, a Major Battle Between Publishers and Big Tech

In an industry first, dozens of publishing houses have announced they will boycott e-commerce platform JD.com’s “618” shopping festival.