The evaluation results of the first batch of national retail industry innovation and improvement pilot cities were recently announced. Baotou was the only city in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region to make the list.

In recent years, Baotou has focused on promoting the development of the retail industry and improving the city's commercial and trade circulation system. 

To date, it has formed a circulation system supported by 10 large-scale commercial complexes, 10 commercial clusters, 14 used car trading markets, 20 specialty commercial streets, 32 large and medium-sized retail commercial facilities of over 10,000 square meters, seven brand chain supermarkets with 66 stores, 79 4S stores, 281 refined oil retail enterprises, and 378 convenience stores of five brands.

To accelerate the diversified development of the life service industry, the Baotou business bureau is focusing on scenario-based transformation, quality-oriented supply, digital empowerment, diversified innovation, and supply chain improvement, and has conducted a survey of projects that can be included in the scope of innovation and upgrading support throughout the city, with a focus on clarifying 58 application projects. 

The bureau will promote the revitalization of idle commercial assets and the renovation of existing commercial facilities in the city through the implementation of the Retail Industry Innovation and Enhancement Project, enrich consumer choices, raise consumer spending, and create brand hubs for high-end entertainment, shopping, and catering, empowering the city's commercial development.