Chengdu, the commercial hub of southwestern China, launched a shopping festival on Saturday night at Chengdu International Finance Square, to further boost commerce in the city.

The two-month festival, involving more than 200 shopping malls and business organizations, aims to promote sales all across the city. Customers are being offered discounts, gifts and raffles in areas such as autos, home appliances, furniture, tourism, clothing, food, luxuries and daily necessities.

The city will also host a series of themed tourism promotions, and bring in top British names like Jaguar Land Rover, Savoir Bed, and other Royal Warrant brands.

The annual event was initiated in 2003, to boost Chengdu's commerce and build itself into a leading consumer goods center. In recent years, Chengdu has devoted itself to becoming a famous convention and exhibition city by creating a series of festival brands.

Inland city becomes a showpiece to the world	High-tech park growing local innovation