#58: [special edition 🌱] Signs of progress in sex, mental health, and feminism in China | Following the Yuan

Despite the current political climate, there are bright spots in society and culture that show how businesses and individuals are making a difference.

Happy new year everyone, I thought this would be a good week to shed light on some small positive developments in topics like sex, mental health, and feminism that happened to emerge in the first week of 2025.

While China’s current political climate doesn’t support a progressive society (i.e. crackdown on LGBTQ communities, strengthened censorship measures, and the rejection of Western influences), there are bright spots in society and culture that show how businesses and individuals are making a difference. The biggest takeaway for business leaders, I believe, is to avoid letting political views overshadow your understanding of China. In turbulent times, keep your eyes on your target audience and the changes in their lives.

I’m also planning a pricing adjustment this year — raising the price but offering 10 complimentary members for students and media/translation freelancers. To apply for complimentary access, please email followingtheyuan at gmail.com before Jan. 20, tell me about yourself and how the content can help you.

Companies/people appeared in this issue: Jissbon (LifeStyles), Durex (Reckitt Benckiser), Osuga, Cachito, Sun Yingsha (Tide ambassador), Zhao Lusi (Versace, Bulgari, Guerlain, L’Occitane, Lay’s and Pepsi ambassador)