Qingming holiday boosts China’s travel, retail activity

April 7, 2026 (MLN): China experienced a robust boost in consumer spending and travel during the 3-day Qingming Festival holiday, fueled in part by overlapping spring school breaks for primary and secondary students, according to APP.

From April 4 to April 6, average daily sales at major retail and catering enterprises tracked by the Ministry of Commerce rose by 2.4% year-on-year, showing a steady rebound in domestic consumption.

Hotel bookings also saw growth, increasing by 2.6% year-on-year, while intercity travel surged by 15.1%, highlighting strong demand for leisure and family trips.

Car rental services recorded a notable spike, with orders jumping nearly 40% from the previous year, driven by a rise in family-oriented travel.

The ministry also reported significant growth in online sales of smart products, including smart glasses, watches, fitness bands, and blood glucose monitoring devices, reflecting ongoing consumer interest in technology and wellness.

The Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, fell on April 5 this year.

Traditionally a time for honoring ancestors, the holiday has increasingly become an opportunity for outdoor recreation, short vacations, and sightseeing.

Transportation authorities estimated that 845.38m passenger trips were made nationwide during the holiday, marking a 6% year-on-year increase.

On a daily basis, travelers averaged 281.79m trips, underscoring the strength of domestic mobility during the festive period.

The Qingming holiday data highlights China’s resilient domestic consumption and travel sector, signaling optimism for retail, hospitality, and tourism industries as the country continues to recover from pandemic-era disruptions.

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