China's gross domestic product (GDP) grew 5.4 percent year on year in the first quarter of 2025, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed on Wednesday.
The country's GDP reached 31.8758 trillion yuan (about 4.42 trillion U.S. dollars) during the period, the NBS data showed.
On a quarterly basis, the economy increased 1.2 percent in the first three months.
Specifically, the added value of the primary industry reached 1.1713 trillion yuan, up 3.5 percent year on year, while the added value of the secondary industry came in at 11.1903 trillion yuan, up 5.9 percent, and that of the tertiary industry stood at 19.5142 trillion yuan, up 5.3 percent.
China's GDP grew 5 percent year on year last year and the country has targeted its full-year economic growth at around 5 percent for 2025.
China's GDP expands 5.4 pct year on year in Q1
China's new "silver trains" are transforming senior travel from a logistical hurdle into a seamless adventure, offering onboard AI-powered classes, emergency medical support, and tracking devices, all designed for passengers aged 65 to 70.
Recently in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, hundreds of excited senior citizens boarded one of China's innovative "silver trains", a groundbreaking travel service designed specifically for elderly passengers.
The train set off on a weeklong journey to Sichuan Province in southwest China, carrying over 400 senior passengers with an average age of 70. Designed for comfort and engagement, the specially configured train offered more than just transportation. Each traveler received a comprehensive guide featuring weather forecasts, outfit recommendations, and a schedule of onboard activities, from AI workshops to traditional Chinese ear therapy sessions.
"I have finally relaxed and gone on a trip. Even though it's my first time, it feels so familiar, just like coming home," said a first-time traveler, reflecting on the welcoming atmosphere.
"They even have group leaders, medical staff, plus opportunities to learn, sing, and join photography contests. They've really thought of everything," said another passenger.
Xu Mei, deputy secretary of China Railway Shandong Culture and Tourism Group, highlighted the rising demand for senior-friendly travel experiences.
"As our living standards have improved, I feel that retirees are now seeking more fulfillment on a spiritual and emotional level. Silver trains are a great way for seniors to travel," she said.
The journey featured cultural visits to historical landmarks such as Huangze Temple and breathtaking natural landscapes like Jiuzhaigou Valley.
For 70-year-old Wang Jingke, a former professor, the trip fulfilled her lifelong dream.
"I have dreamed of this place (Jiuzhaigou Valley). I finally made it," she said.
Meanwhile, enhanced safety measures ensure peace of mind, featuring portable tracking devices for added security.
"Xiaowen, can you hear me?" Wang tested her device, to which the tour guide promptly responded, "I see your location."
Medical support is available onboard, with emergency SOS devices equipped with cords installed throughout the carriages for safety.
"The SOS emergency signal can help with location tracking. There's a rope attached to it. For elderly passengers, especially those who are weak or suddenly fall seriously ill, they can pull the rope. This way, the monitoring center can accurately pinpoint their location, and our doctors can reach the area immediately," explained former physician Li Qiuping.
With China's population aged beyond 60 exceeding 300 million, accounting 22 percent of the total, experts see great potential in such senior-focused services.
Liu Xiangdong, an associate professor of the School of Economics and Management at the University of Science and Technology Beijing suggested future improvements.
"In terms of accessibility and safety, the train can improve the aisle slope, add more accessible restrooms in the future, to reduce the risk of falls for seniors. To accommodate age-related changes in vision and hearing, features like voice-controlled lighting and VR viewing devices could be introduced," Liu said.
As these silver-haired travelers attend classes, make new friends, and explore scenic destinations with tailored support, China's silver trains are redefining what retirement travel can be, turning what was once a challenging experience into a comfortable, enriching adventure.
China's "silver trains" redefine senior travel with customized services
