China’s per capita disposable income rose 5.2 per cent year on year in nominal terms in H1 2026, reaching 22,981 yuan (~$3,384), the NBS data showed.
Rural income growth outpaced urban growth, a signal for apparel and textile firms tracking demand beyond major cities.
Wage and operating income also recorded nominal gains.
Rural residents’ per capita disposable income was 12,699 yuan, rising 6.4 per cent in nominal terms and 5.5 per cent in real terms.
China’s per capita disposable income grew 4.2 per cent in real terms after deducting price factors.
During the same period, per capita wage income, net operating income, net property income and net transfer income posted nominal increases of 5.3 per cent, 6.5 per cent, 1.1 per cent and 5.8 per cent, respectively.
The H1 data point to continued nominal income gains across major income categories, with rural consumers recording stronger growth than urban residents during the period.
The figures are relevant for apparel and textile exporters, manufacturers and retail sourcing teams tracking consumer purchasing capacity in China, one of the key demand indicators for fashion and textile products.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk
