China consumers cut back on travel during ‘golden week’ holiday due slowing growth, weaker yuan
- Many Chinese consumers are forgoing expensive trips abroad amid a slowdown in the economy and decline in the value of the yuan
- Online travel site Ctrip.com International says weak outbound travel demand and a decline in air ticket prices may affect third quarter earnings
Many Chinese appear to be opting to stay at home during this year’s week-long National Day holiday, as the economy stutters amid a trade war with the United States and a weakening currency makes consumers cautious about splurging on expensive holidays, but their spending on food and entertainment does not seem to be greatly affected.
While some stores and restaurants in Beijing’s central business district were shut in the lead up to a military parade on October 1, it has been business as usual since Wednesday.
Chinese traditionally spend large amounts on travel during golden week, but huge crowds at popular tourist sites appear to have deterred some travellers, while a weaker yuan and slowing real income growth have dampened the appetite of many to buy holiday packages.
Online travel site Ctrip.com International said that weak outbound travel demand and a decline in air ticket prices may put pressure on its earnings in the third quarter. The US-China trade war, the weaker yuan and protests in Hong Kong meant fewer people were travelling to Hong Kong and Taiwan, which usually account for one-third of Chinese outbound trips.