‘Lazy economy’: US$15 monthly rubbish services in China gain popularity, benefitting elderly
Por Fran Lu — South China Morning Post – News feed
Advertisement Trending in China People & Culture Trending in China ‘Lazy economy’: US$15 monthly rubbish services in China gain popularity, benefitting elderly
Trend highlights a growing market of convenient, time-saving services for people lacking the energy for daily chores
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Fran Lu in Beijing Published: 6:00pm, 15 Sep 2026
A new business trend has emerged in China where young people get paid to throw out rubbish for others at a small fee – and it is proving to be a surprising success.
While many people consider taking out the rubbish merely an incidental chore, it has evolved into a paid service in China.
On social media platforms, some entrepreneurs promote their rubbish disposal services. Their fees range from three to five yuan (45 to 75 US cents) per pickup, with an option for a monthly package priced at around 100 yuan (US$15).
The monthly service includes daily rubbish collection, requiring clients only to place their bag of rubbish outside their door for easy pickup.
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