2010春节假期国内消费创新高

如今我国短短的春节假期也成了名副其实的黄金周。各商家也是使出浑身解数，通过打折、抽奖等方式抢占商机。据官方统计，2010年春节期间国内市场的消费创历史新高，达到了5千亿美元，同比增长17%。其中主要的消费源为购买年货物资、娱乐身心和走亲访友。

Shopping is one of the key activities during the Chinese New Year, and this year, the domestic market has seen record sales. According to official figures, the total retail sales of public consumer goods during the Spring Festival hit some 50 billion U.S. dollars, up 17 percent over the same period last year. Wang Jing takes a closer look.

During this spring festival, many shopping malls and supermarkets carried out various promotions such as discounts and lucky draws, in order to stimulate business.

Sales of many items including food, liquor, household appliances, and garments all enjoyed strong momentum.

Jewelry sales have also been rising along with electronic products and compact body-building apparatus.

Mr. Mei, a resident of Qingdao city in Shandong province is considering buying an LED TV set, which uses less energy and is therefore more environmentally friendly.

"As the government has been encouraging sales of low-carbon items during the Spring Festival break, I've decided to buy this television, which is more economical and practical."

Besides material demands, an increasing number of people have been spending money on uplifting the spirits. Mr. Gu and his daughter, from Pingdingshan City in Henan Province, are shopping for flowers in their local market.

"I'm always in a good mood when shopping for flowers, which can decorate the house and help contribute towards the festival atmosphere."

With regard to culture, many entertainment spots have become a popular choice for Chinese recreation during the spring festival break, such as theatres, internet cafes and karaoke.

Going to the movies has become a favorite pastime for many in Shanghai this spring festival. Wu Hehu, Deputy General Manager of a local cinema chain, Shanghai United Circuit, says the number of people going to the cinema on the first day of the Chinese New Year is much higher than in previous years.

"The Lunar New Year's Day is the most popular for movie goers during the Spring festival break according to Shanghai United Circuit, generating over 6 million yuan in sales."

Purchase of material goods, experiencing culture and entertainment and attending family gatherings are expected to be the three main reasons for expenditure during the Chinese Spring Festival which officially winds up on Sunday, the 15th day of the 1st lunar month.