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Diplomacy
ChinaDiplomacy

Shanghai courts Taylor Swift for 2025 show as Chinese cities bet on stars to boost economy

‘We are optimistic,’ tourism official says as Shanghai reportedly enters talks to bring American pop superstar to China

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Taylor Swift performs during her Eras Tour in Vancouver, Canada on December 6. The only Asia stops on the record-breaking tour were Japan and Singapore. Photo: AP
Vanessa Caiin Shanghai
Shanghai has entered preliminary talks with American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift about a potential concert this year, according to a local tourism official, as Chinese cities aim to attract international stars and fire up the economy.
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Zhang Qi, deputy director of Shanghai’s culture and tourism bureau, said local officials had hosted Swift’s team for preliminary discussions in the municipality, Shanghai-based media outlet The Paper reported on Tuesday.

“As for whether it will ultimately happen, it depends on the market and the attractiveness of our city. However, we are optimistic and think that there may be hope for this year,” he said.

Last year, advisers to the Shanghai government referred to superstars such as Swift as “walking GDP” because of their massive economic impact. They called for restrictions on international performers to be relaxed to host more high-profile shows.

The counsellors’ office of the Shanghai municipal government said on its social media account last year that government departments should streamline approvals, visas, customs and other logistical challenges that limited the potential to attract top-tier talent.

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Chinese fans turn cinema into celebration watching Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour film

Chinese fans turn cinema into celebration watching Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour film

Hosting international performances in China is a complex process that involves navigating a maze of regulations and restrictions.

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