China aims to cook up job growth with return of street-stall economy

Shenzhen, Beijing and more reverse attitude on hawkers to spur recovery

A hawker sells fruit in Guangzhou in 2020. While considered a key source of jobs, China's street stalls have also been seen as a nuisance by some. (Photo by Takashi Kawakami)

IORI KAWATE, Nikkei staff writer

May 14, 2023 00:52 JST

BEIJING -- China's major cities have once again embraced hawkers after years of trying to clear them from streets, hoping the so-called street-stall economy will boost sluggish recovery in job growth and spending since the end of zero-COVID restrictions.

Starting September, Shenzhen will allow street vendors to set up stalls within designated areas. Shanghai is considering allowing street stalls at night markets and pedestrian-only zones within certain times. Details of the plan will be published this month, Chinese financial news group Yicai reported.