If you’ve been contemplating a tech upgrade or need to replace outdated home appliances, now is the time to act. Thanks to a new round of government subsidies announced on January 8th by the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Finance, consumers across China can enjoy significant savings on everything from mobile phones to refrigerators.
Whether you’re sprucing up your apartment or investing in the latest gadgets, here’s how these new policies can help you save.
Up to 20% Off Home Appliances
The latest measures continue to support the trade-in of older home appliances, offering subsidies on 12 product categories. If you’re looking to upgrade your refrigerator, washing machine, air conditioner, or even smaller appliances like microwaves and rice cookers, you could save big.
Subsidy Details:
15% of the sales price for products meeting Level 2 energy or water efficiency standards.
20% of the sales price for products meeting Level 1 energy or water efficiency standards.
Maximum Subsidy: 2,000 RMB per unit (limited to 1 unit per product category, with up to 3 air conditioners eligible per consumer).
If you already claimed a subsidy in 2024, don’t worry—you’re still eligible for another round in 2025 for the same product category.
Mobile and Digital Devices:
Need a new smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch? The government is offering subsidies for purchases of digital products priced below 6,000 RMB.
Subsidy Details:
15% of the sales price.
Maximum Subsidy: 500 RMB per unit, with one unit eligible per product category per consumer.
Whether you’re upgrading to the latest iPhone or looking for a budget-friendly fitness tracker, this is an opportunity to score a great deal.
Trade-In Your Old Car or E-Bike
For those with aging vehicles or electric bicycles, the policy extends to encourage environmentally friendly upgrades.
Vehicles:
Up to 20,000 RMB for new energy vehicles.
Up to 15,000 RMB for fuel-powered cars with engines of 2.0 litters or less.
Electric Bicycles:
Subsidies are available for trading in older models for new electric bikes or upgrading from lithium-ion to lead-acid battery models.
Smart Homes and Renovations: More Savings
Planning a kitchen upgrade or an elder-friendly renovation? Subsidies are also available for materials and appliances purchased as part of home improvement projects. The policy encourages investment in smart home devices, making this the perfect time to modernize your space.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time
With these subsidies in place, you can make environmentally conscious choices, reduce energy consumption, and enhance your lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Visit your local retailers or authorized dealers to take advantage of these offers. Many of these policies are set to run through 2025, but early shoppers can enjoy the best selection of products and models.
How to apply for subsidies
While the official notification outlines the subsidy details, specific application procedures are expected to be released by local authorities. Generally, the application process involves verifying eligibility and purchasing an eligible product through authorized retailers participating in the program.
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