'Einstein's brain' among best-sellers on Taobao

Wei Xiang, a researcher at the National Academy of Economic Strategy, affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said the surging popularity of products that cater to consumers' emotional needs reflects an improving outlook on economic development, highlighted by a steady drop in the unemployment rate and a reduction in inflation levels.

Hong Yong, deputy researcher in the e-commerce branch of the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said that such novel products often draw inspiration from popular memes or social topics.

"Small and micro entrepreneurs on Taobao are particularly sensitive to these trends. With the improvement of e-commerce infrastructure and supply chains, they can seize hot topics and turn them into tangible business opportunities at a relatively lower cost," Hong said.