Snack vendors selling Harbin’s famous frozen pears are also concerned.
“I am really scared – scared that by the time this winter ends, it will have already warmed up. If that happens, our fruits will melt, and once they melt, it will definitely have an impact on sales,” said street vendor Shang Liang.
Still, analysts are positive climate challenges could also lead to new opportunities and solutions as businesses are forced to be creative.
“In terms of climate sustainability, that has always been a part of the question for the winter sports, and with the economy,” said Heron Lim, an economist from financial services firm Moody’s.
“The flip side of it is how these areas potentially could incentivise the breakthroughs and innovations in the more renewable aspects of things. And I think China is able to develop this type of ecotourism as well for the winter economy.”
The next major event to be held in Harbin is the 9th Asian Winter Games next month.
Local media reports have predicted that foreign traveller numbers are expected to increase by around 20 per cent.
