Fri, 17 Oct 2025

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 China's biggest shopping event starts five weeks early to revive spending

Typically a shopping event that begins on 11 November - Singles Day has kicked off earlier this year.
China's Single's Day sales have started earlier than usual, kicking off in mid-October as retailers try to boost spending in a sluggish market. The country is facing economic challenges such as youth unemployment, a prolonged property crisis, and a trade war with the US, leading consumers to cut back on spending. The Chinese government has been trying to stimulate consumption through measures like family subsidies, higher wages, and discounts for consumer goods. However, retail sales growth remains slow. Singles' Day, created by Alibaba as a shopping festival, is now one of China's biggest online shopping events, similar to Amazon's Prime Day or Black Friday. The event typically takes place on November 11th, but this year retailers have launched their sales campaigns in October. Online platforms like Taobao, JD.com, and Douyin are promoting "11.11" sales with discounts and vouchers. Alibaba is kicking off its annual "11.11 Global Shopping Festival" on October 15th, using artificial intelligence to help shoppers navigate its sites. Chinese consumers have become more cautious in their spending habits since the Covid-19 pandemic, which has led to a decline in high-end retail sales. However, investors are optimistic about a rebound in China's market, with shares of luxury brands like LVMH and Moncler rising this week.
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