Holiday policies and spring break helped lift net dining-out intentions, especially as household incomes recovered across China’s foodservice industry. But the overall dining-out expectations declined year over year as consumers shift their focus toward other categories. This month’s China Consumer Sentiment Study shares March 2026 performance and highlights where consumers plan to increase their spending during spring break.

Highlights:  

• Household net income recovered but unemployment slightly rose 

• Fewer consumers expect to reduce their spending on dining out in the month ahead  

• Consumers are focusing their spending on daily necessities and entertainment this spring break 

• Home cooking spending expectations decreased the most year over year