Linyi charts integrated path for sports economy

Linyi is developing sports into a new engine for urban growth by integrating high-level competitions, mass participation and industrial upgrading as it prepares to host the upcoming 26th Shandong Province Sports Games.

In 2025, the city's sports consumption reached 24.35 billion yuan ($3.39 billion), ranking third in Shandong, while its sports industry exceeded 33.24 billion yuan, becoming an emerging pillar for the city's high-quality development.

To attract more visitors through events, Linyi hosted 73 national and provincial-level competitions in 2025, up 38 percent year-on-year, including CBA and WCBA games, the China Powerboat Open and canoeing events.

These events brought in more than 350,000 participants and spectators from outside the city, directly driving 1.6 billion yuan in spending on catering, accommodation, transport, tourism and shopping.

Events staged in scenic areas such as Mengshan Mountain and the Yihe River also attracted 170,000 visitors and generated 120 million yuan in local consumption.

Linyi has also diversified event organization by building a government-guided, socially supported and market-oriented system. Market-run grassroots events, including the Red Yimeng "Linchao" football league and rural basketball competitions, have expanded participation across counties and villages, while 459 new or upgraded fitness venues have improved public services and brought sports closer to everyday community life.

Meanwhile, the city is strengthening its sports industrial chain. With 6,988 sports-related market entities, Linyi is expanding into manufacturing, training, event operations, trade and services, helping local brands reach wider domestic and international markets and creating a fuller sports economy ecosystem.

Editor：韩蒙蒙