Why Does Losing Weight Become a National Mission?

Why Is Losing Weight Now a National Mission—A Sneak Peek Inside Our New Issue

Discover how China’s health policy, the fitness industry, and new weight-loss drugs are reshaping the fight against obesity in the country

October 13, 2026

New Magazine Issue: Weight of the Nation

Image: Jiayu Zhang

“Obesity is not simply about being unable to control your appetite or lacking self-discipline.” —— Weight of the Nation, p.20

In this issue, we explore how the shift in understanding of obesity has pushed China to adopt a more systemic approach, with government, health platforms, and private businesses working together to tackle the country’s overweight problem.

“Fitness enthusiasts aren’t just chasing results—they also want the emotional rewards that come from exercise.” ——Race to Fitness, p.30

The Healthy China campaign aims to build a supportive weight-control environment by 2030; digital platforms are turning weight loss into a game of goals, check-ins, and rewards; and weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro are becoming increasingly popular.

“My dream is to be seen for the person I am. I can’t become a star by selling my face to AI” —— Trading Faces, p.61

Elsewhere in the issue, we trace how college majors are being reshaped around national strategy and what it means for students. We also embark on “painless hiking,” a new travel trend fueled by scenic areas adding escalators, cable cars, and other conveniences, to see whether easier means better.

“Chinese people travel in such a tiring way that we often need another vacation to recover from the last one.”—— Peak Convenience, p.53

“It was unwise to tie your future to anyone whose position within the school was unsteady.” —— Fiction: It Was a Good Day, p.81

You’ll also find the dangerous appeal of Yunnan’s wild mushrooms, what it means to be a “fangirl” of history, the latest trends in gaming, a short story, and much more. Enjoy reading!