Good Tips For Bargaining In China

Since the reforms from the late 70's China has gradually opened up to the world and in return received massive benefits from an exploding economy. This is particular true within the past ten years, and as the country has enjoyed remarkable economic boom, with it comes the massive demand for their consumer goods.


Today the major cities such as Shanghai and Beijing have become shopping paradises. Alongside young Chinese consumers, more and more tourists from abroad are coming to these major cities in an effort to take advantage of a low currency, less stringent copyright laws, and good bargain deals. Now days everything from jewellery. designer clothes, laptops and iPhones are found in this country.

It is true that since the Olympics, China has been cracking down on illegal goods and counterfeits. In general however, the government and police generally turn a blind eye to the numerous markets offering consumer goods at a fraction of the original price. It is illegal to counterfeit, but its not illegal to sell products for a cheap price, just don’t put the two together. The amount of places where you can find "knock off" goods in China can be staggering to Westerners. Large markets are located across all cities, and single stalls can be found pretty much on every other corner selling cheap jewellery, cigarettes etc. As in many places across the world, depending on what area you are in, it is very common to be approached by street hawkers. Fake goods such as clothing, watches, and mobile phones will all be offered.

What is more popular with the younger population in China are the shopping arcades filled with small shops and outlets selling all sorts of fake goods at incredible prices. These shopping arcades are more trustworthy than their street seller rivals for the simple reason being they have a fixed location and an address. However just like the street venders and everyone else in the world, the point of doing business is making money, so when you are buying "knock off" products be fully aware that con men and thieves can show up. Although this is usually rare, for the simple reason being that westerners do get conned, it is always good to play it safe and only purchase something you are completely happy with.

The down side for purchasing bargain goods is the actually quality of the goods. The reality is since you are paying a fraction of the price you can not expect the same quality. Buying fake Gucci shoes may look identical, but after one month of wear and tear don’t expect them to hold up as well as the originals. Also be aware of goods which you buy at a lovely low price but due to such terrible quality are not worth the discounted price paid. Although this happens rarely it is still something which happens therefore a good inspection of the item is heavily recommend before any money is paid. Do not let this put you of however. What is true for bad quality also is true for good quality. It is very possible to run in to good quality fakes at a good price. Looking for these good quality items at bargain prices is half the fun of it.

In the end it is up to you who decides good value for your money. Do not be shy in closely examine anything before you buy, it is a part of the "game" and it is expected. Furthemore, when you enter these shopping arcades don’t be surprised if you see marked prices on items like the way you would see at authentic department stores. Do not be fooled when you see these prices, they in reality suggest nothing about price which you will pay. In many occasions, sellers dont even start haggling at the prices indicated on the goods.

Depending on where you want to shop most shop sellers will not speak English. If you enjoy visiting the tourist areas however finding some one who has mastered the English language in bargaining will be easy to find. Remember however, if you go to the tourist places you will need to bargain more off of the original price. If you are viewed as a western tourist you are viewed with someone with money. If you dont go to these tourist location and are not confident in your Chinese ability then simply bring a pen and paper and write down the amount you are willing to pay. Body language does the rest.

No matter where you go, the basic principle in bargaining is to completely realize that the first price offered is too high. Even with little bargain skills you should on average get 30 percent off the original price. Remember that you do not need to worry about offending sellers. If they think the price is too low they wont sell it to you. It’s that simple. In fact it is fair to say almost everywhere in China you can find an area to bargain, except of course main department stores and high street shop.

The good news however is overall, due to the low currency and relaxed approach to copyrights, if you are visiting China and have any free time, it is worth finding a shopping street where you can have a very enjoyable day bargain hunting.

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