China's consumer price index (CPI), a main gauge of inflation, rose 0.2 percent year on year in 2024, said a Chinese official in Beijing on Friday.
Kang Yi, head of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), released the data at a press conference on the performance of the country's economy in 2024, held by the State Council Information Office.
"In 2024, the CPI rose by 0.2 percent over the previous year. Grouped by commodity categories, prices for food, tobacco and alcohol dipped by 0.1 percent; clothing were up by 1.4 percent; housing up by 0.1 percent; articles and services for daily use up by 0.5 percent; transportation and communication down by 1.9 percent; education, culture and recreation up by 1.5 percent; medical services and health care up by 1.3 percent; and other articles and services up by 3.8 percent," said Kang.
In further breakdown, prices for fresh fruits and grain went down by 3.5 percent and 0.1 percent, while prices of fresh vegetables and pork rose 5 percent and 7.7 percent, respectively.
Core CPI excluding the prices of food and energy edged up by 0.5 percent. In December, the CPI went up by 0.1 percent year on year, on par with last month.
In contrast, prices for industrial products saw a moderate decline.
"In 2024, the producer prices and purchasing prices for industrial products both edged down by 2.2 percent year on year. In December, the producer prices and purchasing prices for industrial products both declined by 2.3 percent year on year, or down by 0.1 percent month on month," said the official.
China's Consumer Price Index up 0.2 pct in 2024
China's Consumer Price Index up 0.2 pct in 2024
China's first domestically-built cruise ship, Adora Magic City, has gained traction among consumers with a new vacation experience since its sail last year, while stimulating spending across various sectors from tourism and hospitality to retail and entertainment.
With 323.6 meters in length and 2,125 rooms, the cruise ship can accommodate up to 5,246 passengers at full capacity. The ship also boasts 26 restaurants and bars, offering diverse culinary options from Chinese dishes to Western steaks, Italian pizza, and German beer.
"We drove here from Hangzhou, directly to the dock in Shanghai and boarded the cruise. This one is relatively new, and its dining options are more suited to Chinese tastes," said a tourist.
"We've brought parents and children along with us on this journey. Cruises are very convenient since meals and accommodations are all included, making it hassle-free," said another tourist.
The cruise ship also offers a variety of leisure options, including theatrical performances, a shopping plaza, an art gallery, and a water park, making it a destination for entertainment and family-friendly fun.
The cruise ship started its commercial maiden voyage on Jan 1, 2024. Since then, it has driven consumption, fostered the cruise economy's ecosystem development, and boosted collaboration within the industry.
"Data from the first quarter of this year shows that the cruise tourism market is still prosperous. We are seeing high occupancy rates. Our industry system is gradually taking shape, encompassing independent design, construction, supply, and operation. Particularly, on the operational side, we have achieved a nearly 100-percent local procurement," said Gu Pengcheng, vice president of Adora Cruise.
The cruise ship also drew more overseas tourists, bringing them to explore Shanghai's iconic landmarks, such as the Yuyuan Garden and the Bund.
In the first quarter of 2025, data showed that Shanghai's border and inspection station inspected more than 180 cruises and 510,000 passengers.
China's first domestically-built cruise ship becomes consumer favorite
