Shanghai kicked off an online shopping festival on April 28 — a 15-day celebration aimed at stimulating high-quality consumer spending through a blend of online and on-site retail, great shopping experiences and digital innovation.

Running through to May 12, the festival features over 40 activities and initiatives — including themed markets, livestream events, flash promotions, shopping vouchers and curated retail zones — all designed to deliver a rich, multidimensional shopping experience.

Showcasing quality e-commerce

With a focus on expanding access to premium goods and services, leading platforms like Freshippo, Dewu, Suning.com and CDF Sunrise Duty Free are launching tailored campaigns during the festival.

Spanning a wide range of categories — from home appliances, fashion and jewelry to personal care, electronics, wellness and food — the platforms are offering major discounts and promotions to meet growing demand for up-market products  and upgraded lifestyles.

Bringing export products to local shoppers

In line with national efforts to support foreign trade via e-commerce, platforms — including JD.com, Taobao, Douyin, Pinduoduo and Suning.com — have introduced dedicated zones for premium export-grade goods.

These areas display imported items like stainless steelware, kitchen tools, snacks and more — bolstered by shopping vouchers and discount programs. Livestreams hosted by TV shopping platform Ocj-China.com and short video platform Kuaishou are further helping bring export-quality products to domestic customers.

Driving innovation through scenario-based shopping

This year's festival spotlights innovative shopping scenarios that use AI and other digital technologies to merge retail with tourism and cultural experiences.

Platforms like Meituan and Ele.me are partnering with shopping areas such as Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and Global Harbor to create immersive, experiential environments. AI-powered fitness sessions and steep discounts on car maintenance, among others, are adding fun and convenience to the consumer journey.

Connecting via Silk Road E-commerce

Building on the momentum of the China International Import Expo and Shanghai's Silk Road E-commerce initiative, the festival is linking global and domestic markets through a curated selection of Silk Road E-commerce goods.

Platforms like Pinduoduo, Dingdong Maicai, Meione.com, Hq365.com and Kaijie.com are featuring imported products from countries including Argentina, Ireland, Italy and New Zealand. Items such as coffee, wine, candy, handicrafts and luxury goods are being presented in themed promotions — offering Chinese consumers a seamless global shopping experience.

Fueling industrial transformation with digital commerce

Digital commerce is also powering industrial revitalization. Companies such as Shanghai Jahwa, Tesla, Bestpay, Laiyifen and DuduJia are spotlighting time-honored brands, local specialties and signature agricultural products.

Livestreaming hubs like Zhongguang International, Meigu Meigou, 5808 Base and 1560 Park are hosting specialized streams featuring products like cashmere clothes, beauty items and gourmet foods — boosting sales performance while energizing local industry.

Source: Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce