According to a recent article in the Washington Post, Chinese travelers spent nearly $85 billion overseas in 2012, outspending their peers from the US and Germany.

For many, making money in China and spending it abroad has become a part of life for the country's well-heeled. But as the domestic economy slows, there is now a stronger need than ever for rich people to spend their money here at home.

But why are Chinese travelers so keen to throw their money around outside of the country?

For one thing, overseas markets are so much more attractive than the domestic market. Prices for luxury and consumer goods are usually much cheaper outside of China. 

Some policy actions aimed at reshaping the economy may also have something to do with this. For example, amid curbs on the country's property market, Chinese nationals spent $7 billion on real estate in the US in 2011.

The author is Zhang Haiying, a commentator.