China's box office raked in record takings over the Lunar New Year holiday while domestic spending jumped, data showed on Wednesday, marking a bright showing for Chinese policymakers as they work to spur domestic demand.

China’s film market enjoyed a record-breaking Lunar New Year, amassing $1.31 billion in total box office revenue over the seven-day holiday period.

Among China’s traditional holidays and celebrations, none ranks higher in importance than the Lunar New Year (農曆新年). Also known as the Spring Festival (春節), or simply Chinese New Year, it marks the beginning of the year according to the traditional lunar calendar.

The Chinese box office experienced a massive boost over the Lunar New Year holiday, with five major releases propelling earnings to $1.2 billion.