“Sports Events Boost Local Economy During May Day Holidays”
During the recent “May Day” holidays, various sports events across China have not only entertained participants and spectators but also positively impacted the surrounding economy. In Hainan, the “Run Boys” Hainan Youth Badminton Open brought nearly 200 young badminton players to Coconut City, driving up consumption in the east slope style commercial district of Haikou Old Wharf.
Similarly, the 2024 Lingnan Mind Games in Guangzhou attracted 1,500 players competing in various mind games and prompted famous players to visit scenic spots and neighborhoods to engage with citizens and tourists. This led to a bustling atmosphere in Zengcheng Zhengguo Old Street, with century-old stores seeing increased foot traffic.
Furthermore, the 4th Shanghai Citizen Games China Pickleball Tour-CPC200 (Shanghai Station) concluded at Wanda Plaza in Yangpu District, Shanghai. The event coincided with the May 1st holiday and the May 5th Shopping Festival, attracting 120 players and stimulating the local economy.
Officials from various districts emphasized the importance of hosting events to promote the integration of sports, business, and cultural tourism. By leveraging the popularity of sports events, districts like Zengcheng and Yangpu are creating “travel with events” business cards to attract visitors and boost consumption.
Director Xu Bin of the Shanghai Municipal Sports Bureau highlighted the mutual empowerment of sports, culture, tourism, commerce, and exhibitions in maximizing the impact of sports events on various consumption sectors. With the support of policies and collaboration between sports, business, and cultural tourism departments, these districts are striving to create trendy sports destinations and new business districts for sports consumption.
Overall, sports events are proving to be not only a source of entertainment but also a catalyst for economic growth and the promotion of local businesses.