Impact and Implications
The rise of rural influencers has had far-reaching effects:
Economic Boost: tourism in once-forgotten villages is booming, and traditional crafts are finding new markets. In 2020, Taobao Villages reported sales of 1.2 trillion yuan (around $169.36 billion).
Government Support: The Chinese government has embraced this trend, seeing it as an opportunity to promote rural revitalization and polish its image as a champion of traditional values.