'She economy' makes rapid strides

Empowerment in scientific research and other segments vital for growth

Come the International Women's Day on March 8 and there will be no letup in the flurry of sales campaigns from online retailers espousing the vital role played by the "she economy" in boosting consumption. But beneath the commercial veneer, much still needs to be done to tap and nurture the intellect and innovation capabilities of women in China, said experts.

"She economy" was the term coined by the Ministry of Education in 2007 for the women-targeted market. Industry data show that female consumers are driving growth in several sectors of the global economy, especially online, like healthcare, financial services, e-commerce and education. They are also key influencers for traditionally male-oriented products such as liquor, automobiles and sports.