The technical teams of China and the European Union (EU) have maintained close communication on negotiations on electric vehicle (EV) price commitments and investment cooperation in the auto industry, a spokesman for China's Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.
He Yadong, the spokesman, made the statement at a press conference in Beijing in response to a media inquiry on the progress of the negotiations, saying that the technical teams from both sides have actively advanced the process of negotiations.
"Technical teams of both sides, following the video meeting between Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic on April 8, have maintained close communication on EV price commitments and trade and investment cooperation, and have actively advanced the consultation process. China is willing to work with the EU to properly handle economic and trade disputes through dialogue and negotiations, deepen bilateral pragmatic cooperation, and bring more certainty and positive energy to the Chinese, European, and global economy," he said.
China-EU technical teams maintain close communication over EV price negotiations: spokesman
China-EU technical teams maintain close communication over EV price negotiations: spokesman
As China's elderly population grows, shopping malls in Shanghai have actively adapted part of their services to cater to the needs and preferences of elderly consumers, tapping into silver-haired consumer market.
This trend reflects the city's efforts to enhance elderly care services amid the population aging. By the end of 2023, people aged 60 and older reached 5.68 million in Shanghai, representing a whopping 37.4 percent of the city's total population.
A shopping mall on the downtown Nanjing East Road pedestrian street has opened a dedicated club for senior citizens, offering a diverse range of activities from the operation of health workshops to traditional handicraft classes.
"I gain a lot every time I come here. I can participate in various club activities and also exchange knowledge and everyday life hacks with others," said Fu Meilin, an elderly resident.
The mall houses nearly 60 time-honored brands, along with dining and entertainment options suited to senior citizens.
Another business district in Shanghai's Putuo District has adopted a different approach, focusing on attracting retirees during weekdays while catering to younger shoppers on weekends.
Restaurants offer affordable off-peak meal deals priced under 100 yuan (about 13.88 U.S. dollars), attracting a large number of senior customers.
To ensure a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience for the elderly, many shopping malls have conducted age-friendly renovations, including providing comfortable seating areas, accessible restrooms, and consumer guidance services for the elderly shoppers.
Driven by the population aging, China's "silver economy" has shown vast growth potential, with the market currently estimated at around seven trillion yuan and projected to reach a 30 trillion yuan by 2035.
Shopping malls in Shanghai adapt to cater to growing 'silver economy'
