Shanghai kicked off a month-long shopping extravaganza on Nov 3, coinciding with the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE). The festival, designed to boost domestic consumption and showcase a plethora of global goods, promises an array of promotions, exhibitions, and cultural events spread throughout the city.

With a focus on highlighting new products and trends from the CIIE, renowned shopping streets like Nanjing Road will unveil a treasure trove of innovative goods, local Chinese brands, and products from countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.

The festival will not only cater to shopping enthusiasts but also offer a feast for the senses with a diverse range of exhibitions and cultural events. Among the highlights is an exhibition featuring a blend of Parisian and Shanghainese modern art, alongside a showcase of Cartier jewelry.

Food aficionados are in for a treat with the "CIIE Gourmet Month", where a variety of cuisines and dining discounts await. Seven distinct food streets have been earmarked for the occasion, serving local delicacies and international flavors. Adding to the culinary excitement, the city will issue "Lepin Shanghai" (literally "joyfully taste Shanghai") dining vouchers throughout November.

In a bid to further stimulate spending, Shanghai will ramp up its trade-in policies for automobiles and home appliances, widening the scope of categories eligible for subsidies. Retailers are also throwing their weight behind the festivities, with major player Bailian Group set to distribute shopping vouchers worth a staggering 500 million yuan ($70.44 million) and host a series of events showcasing global brands.

As the curtains fall on the CIIE on Nov 10, Shanghai will transition into the 2024 Online Shopping Festival, encouraging e-commerce platforms to roll out city-specific promotions. Luxury outlet malls will chime in with discounts and special offers tailored for tourists.

The city is also set to lure tourists with a curated list of 100 must-visit locations and 20 recommended tour routes. Art enthusiasts can revel in the Shanghai International Arts Festival and a special exhibition shedding light on the ancient city of Dunhuang in Gansu province, renowned for the Mogao Grottoes.

Sources: Shanghai Observer, Jiefang Daily, chinadaily.com.cn