Village Connect
SM Prime Holdings, Inc. is reinforcing its long-term commitment to China with the expansion of SM Xiamen City, unveiling a new retail destination designed to respond to the changing preferences of consumers and businesses in Xiamen.
The company is developing CHAO Block, a 19,403-square-meter commercial hub that reimagines the traditional shopping mall by combining retail, culture, and community engagement in one dynamic space. Rather than focusing solely on shopping, the project aims to create an environment where entrepreneurs, independent brands, creatives, and consumers can interact through events, exhibitions, workshops, product launches, and collaborative activities.
According to SM Prime President Jeffrey C. Lim, SM Xiamen City remains a significant milestone for the company as its first investment outside the Philippines. Over the years, the property has become an important platform for learning and growth in the Chinese market.
“As Xiamen continues to develop, we intend to keep strengthening the property and the local entrepreneurs so it remains an important part of the city’s commercial landscape,” Lim said.
The name CHAO symbolizes innovation and limitless possibilities. Inspired by the concept of a fourth state beyond the traditional forms of water—solid, liquid, and gas—it reflects a vision of openness, adaptability, and collaborative commerce.
Construction will be completed in two stages. The first phase is scheduled to welcome visitors in September 2026, while the second phase is expected to be finished in the fourth quarter of 2027.
Since opening in 2001, SM Xiamen City has continuously evolved alongside the city’s growth. Originally established as a one-stop shopping destination, it underwent a major expansion in 2009, adding 109,922 square meters of gross floor area and repositioning itself as an upscale lifestyle center. Another expansion in 2022 added 129,195 square meters, introducing a refreshed mix of tenants and more experiential spaces tailored to younger consumers.
Today, the development is home to more than 500 retail, dining, and leisure establishments, including global brands such as Apple Store, Sephora, Maison Le Fame, Lululemon, as well as Walmart and a wide variety of restaurants and cafés.
Lim noted that despite the highly competitive nature of China’s commercial real estate sector, the continued support of tenants and shoppers has enabled SM Xiamen City to remain a leading lifestyle destination. As the property celebrates its 25th anniversary, SM Prime looks forward to introducing a fresh commercial experience that will serve the next generation of consumers, entrepreneurs, and emerging brands.
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