China’s ongoing economic challenges have persisted into the peak national holiday season, impacting sales of popular luxury items such as hairy crabs and Maotai liquor due to price cuts and weak consumer demand. Analysts note a trend toward more rational spending among Chinese consumers, who are increasingly seeking deals and discounts amid economic uncertainty. The ‘Golden Week’ holiday, which took place October 1 to 7, is a key indicator of domestic demand in the world’s second-largest economy. Reports indicate that prices for hairy crabs dropped significantly, with wholesale prices in Jinan ranging from 30 RMB ($4.27) to 40 RMB per 500g. Merchants have reported falling demand for gift certificates, with some customers reducing their gift budgets by more than half. Moutai liquor sales also continued to decline during the holiday, with prices for a limited edition bottle falling to 2,490 RMB ($341), from around 3,000 RMB ($412).