During the "May 1st" weeklong holiday China realized a total retail sales of consumer goods of 240 billion yuan, up 17 percent over the same period of the previous year, including around 20 percent increase in the catering trade, according to news from the Ministry of Commerce.

Consumption during the "golden week" displayed the following features, the Ministry analyzed.

First, promotions were in forms closer to people and market sales grew steadily. Enterprise sales under special monitoring in Chongqing, Ningbo, Shandong, Heilongjiang increased 26.9, 25.3, 25 and 20 percent respectively.

Second, electrical household appliances enjoyed robust market. Sales of major electrical equipment enterprises in Hangzhou increased 103 percent.

Third, restaurants and hotels saw many more guests than usual. Old brands and specialties were welcomed.

Fourth, residents paid more attention to green and healthy consumption. They have become more rational in making choices. Personalized entertainment and fitness services also flourished.

Fifth, sufficient market supply has ensured stable prices.

By People's Daily Online