China’s Silver Economy: Digitally Savvy Seniors Are Making a Difference

Executive Summary

China’s population is aging and an increasing number of these senior citizens are shopping digitally. It is believed that the digital competence level of Chinese seniors continues to rise, boosting the silver economy.

• According to China’s National Health and Family Planning Commission, the population aged 60 and above in China is expected to surpass 255 million by 2020, accounting for 18% of the total population.
• The number of “netizens”—people who use the Internet and participate in Internet activities—aged 50 and above totaled 80 million, representing 10% of all Internet users, per a 2017 study by China Internet Network Information Center (CINIC).
• Tech companies are implementing ways to provide a more digitally-friendly experience for Chinese seniors. For example, Alibaba launched an elderly-friendly Taobao app in January this year.