China's capital city Beijing is making visible progress in its effort to become an international consumption center, officials of the municipal government noted at a press conference on Wednesday.

By the end of 2021, the number of commercial complexes across the city reached 84, which was 21 more than at the end of 2019 and eight more than at end of 2020. Their total sales volume exceeded 100 billion yuan (US$14.86 billion) for the first time, up by 33.6% year on year. 

Over the past year, commercial areas in the city have become more active. In 2021, the 52 major commercial areas above the designated size saw a 12.8% increase year on year in their retail sales. 

A total of 22 traditional commercial centers in Beijing including Wangfujing Street have completed renovations. The renovated commercial district in Gongzhufen and Sanlitun have introduced new brands, adding vitality and diversified shopping experience to the area. 

According to the municipal statistics bureau, the number of Global Fortune 500 companies operating in Beijing has increased to 57, ranking first among Chinese cities. 

Since 2021, nearly 1,300 international or domestic brands have opened their first stores in the city. The number of stores offering tax refunds in the city has exceeded 800, also ranking first in China.

According to an official from the municipal commerce bureau, Beijing plans to attract about 600 international and domestic brands to open their first stores in the city, build and renovate 410 community-based convenience stores, and launch 100 new tourist destinations and 100 themed travelling routes in 2022.

By 2025, Beijing is expecting to build two or three world-class commercial areas with a market value over 100 billion yuan, attract over 3,000 international and domestic brands to open their first stores, innovation stores, and flagship stores in the city, and encourage at least 90% of local time-honored brands to open online stores.