Discussion keeps the world turning.
This is round table.
Hello, everybody.
Welcome to roundtable.
Coming to you from Beijing, I'm he young.
Good to have you with us on today's show.
We've come a long way from the days when dogs were just for security and cats for catching mice.
Now we're seeing pets being pampered in ways we never imagined.
What's behind this major shift in perspective were taking a deep dive into humanitys greatest love affair, our relationship with our pets.
And from mesmerizing tunes to unforgettable experiences, were sharing the happiness that lit up our week.
Essentially whats made us happy in roundtables happy place.
For todays program, Im joined by Yu Shan and Steve Hatherly.
First on a dates show, lets dive into a fascinating phenomenon that is taking China by storm, the booming pet economy.
Did you know that in 2022, this sector reached a staggering 494 billion yuan, or about $68 billion?
And hold onto your leashes because experts predict this figure will double next year.
From pet kindergartens to furry friends being pushed in strollers, its clear that pets have become more than just animals.
Theyre family.
So whats driving this possum trend?
What do the numbers say?
You, Shan?