Linyi blazes new trail for integrated development of sports economy
Linyi has explored a distinctive development model by integrating sports, culture, tourism and commerce. Riding on the opportunity of hosting the 26th Shandong Provincial Games, the city adopts the philosophy of "develop sports with broader vision" and builds an all-win pattern featuring sports events, cultural tourism, trade cooperation and shared benefits.
In 2025, Linyi’s total sports consumption reached 24.35 billion yuan, ranking the third in Shandong Province. The city held 73 high-level national and provincial sports events, attracting over 350,000 visitors from outside the city and driving full-chain consumption of 1.6 billion yuan. A series of characteristic events are regularly staged at scenic spots and urban blocks, while the Shandong Sports Goods Expo also achieves remarkable transaction volume.
Linyi has shifted from government-led event organization to a joint model of government guidance, public participation and market operation. More grassroots sports events have flourished in urban communities and rural areas. The city keeps improving public sports facilities, with its total sports venue area ranking second across the province.
The local sports industrial chain has been continuously extended. There are now 6,988 sports-related market entities, and the total output of the sports industry exceeds 33.24 billion yuan. Local sports manufacturing brands have obtained international certifications and expanded their presence in global markets. Supported by Linyi Trade City, the sports industry forms a complete ecosystem combining manufacturing, services, events and exhibitions.
In 2026, Linyi plans to host more than 200 high-profile domestic and international sports events. The city’s innovative integration model has effectively activated urban vitality and consumption potential. Its experience offers a valuable reference for cities nationwide to cultivate sports economy and realize integrated development of multiple industries.
Editor：韩蒙蒙