The "Shanghai Commercial Development Report (2024)" released on the afternoon of January 10 shows that the consumption market in several central urban areas of Shanghai is performing well, with enhanced vitality in innovative consumption. New consumption hotspots characterized by "cultural creativity + art," "national trend + new trend," "green living + healthy exercise," and "early childhood education + pet-friendly" are emerging. According to Statistics, in the first half of 2024, the city added 699 new first stores, an increase of 25% compared to the same period last year. By tier, there are 5 global first stores, 3 Asian first stores, and 84 first stores in China (mainland). In terms of business distribution, the dining sector accounts for 70%, while retail trade accounts for 24%. The report shows that only in the first half of 2024, the import and export volume of Shanghai's cross-border e-commerce exceeded 140 billion yuan, with a year-on-year growth of 84%, which is 70 percentage points higher than the overall growth rate of Shanghai's foreign trade in the same period. As of 2024, Shanghai's cross-border e-commerce has reached 174 import sources and 226 export countries and regions, with 2,159 export e-commerce companies under statistical criteria. (Xinmin Evening News)