BEIJING: China’s leading internet and related service companies recorded a steady rise in revenue during the first half of 2025, generating a combined 961.3 billion yuan (approximately US$133.3 billion), according to figures released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.
This marks a 3.1 percent year-on-year increase, showing stronger momentum compared to the 0.9 percent growth seen in the first five months of the year. The uptick highlights a gradual recovery in digital services and e-commerce activity across the country.
Despite the revenue increase, the cumulative profits of these firms declined to 74.32 billion yuan, representing an 8.3 percent fall compared to the same period last year. Analysts attribute the profit dip to rising operational costs and tighter regulatory scrutiny.
Meanwhile, spending on research and development edged up 2.6 percent year-on-year to reach 48.56 billion yuan. The figures cover major internet companies with annual revenues exceeding 20 million yuan and reflect the sector’s ongoing push for innovation amid competitive pressures.
Industry experts believe the sustained revenue growth, alongside continued R&D investment, signals a strong foundation for long-term digital transformation in China’s tech landscape.
