China rolls out 18 measures to boost spending in county-level markets

China has unveiled a package of measures aimed at tapping the consumption potential of lower-tier markets, with a focus on spurring spending in counties, the Ministry of Commerce said on Tuesday.

The guideline, jointly issued by the ministry and eight other government departments, sets out 18 measures covering retail infrastructure, business formats, product and service supply, distribution networks and financial support.

The measures call for upgrading commercial facilities and retail networks, and putting idle assets to better use.

On the retail front, the measures encourage chain operators to expand into county-level markets, help local brands blend heritage with innovation, and support localities in developing new business formats suited to their own conditions, the ministry said.

The package also calls for stronger fiscal and financial support. Eligible personal consumption loans and service-sector business loans will qualify for interest subsidies, while retail businesses opening new chain stores in counties can apply for government-backed startup loans with interest subsidies, according to the guideline.

The ministry said it will coordinate with relevant departments to strengthen coordination, refine implementation measures and ensure the policies deliver results, aiming to "create a favorable environment for invigorating lower-tier markets" and "help build a robust domestic market."