The sale of imported goods for Chinese New Year in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, has surged, with gift boxes and unique items becoming popular choices among consumers, according to Ningbo Evening News.

At Ningbo Imported Commodity Center, merchants work overtime to pack gift boxes for the holiday rush.

"Orders began coming in late last month, but the peak has just started this week and is expected to last until next weekend," said Wang Jianqiang, owner of a store that has sold about 800 gift boxes over the past two days.

A similar scene is unfolding at a store focused on Japanese, South Korean, and Southeast Asian products.

"We've been packing orders for New Year gift boxes until 10 pm every night," said the store's manager surnamed Sun.

To attract more customers during this peak period, the store has introduced deep discounts, with some products discounted by up to 80 percent. "Previously, the best discount was 20 percent off, but now we have prices slashed to as low as 20 percent of the original price," she added.

This year, imported foods, dairy products, beverages, and cooking oils remain top choices for imported New Year's goods, with higher demand for stylish and innovative packaging. At the Serbian Pavilion in the permanent exhibition hall for products from the Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC), multi-functional packaging, like rolling suitcases and tote bags, is flying off the shelves.

"With growing interest in CEEC products, New Year gift boxes are performing exceptionally well," said a staff member.

An important trend this year is handmade ceramics, particularly from Turkiye. These pieces are known for their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and unique craftsmanship, and are highly desirable for being both decorative and functional.

"Each piece is unique due to its handcrafted nature," said a shop owner, "Prices range from a few dozen to several hundred yuan. Although the cost isn't low, we've already sold hundreds in the past two weeks."

A variety of packaging options add a special touch to the New Year gift boxes. [Photo/Ningbo Evening News]