Cracking down on all show and no substance

Pictures of 25-year-olds driving a new Porsche or wearing the most expensive couture watches were the norm on China's social media platforms for a long time. Showing off what you have and who you are was considered part of the Chinese dream. Consumption in China offered many opportunities to celebrate one's own individuality, but that is now coming to an abrupt end.

Last updated: 24. July 2025