Faking it - the real deal
Shanghai's number one tourist attraction is not a modern marvel such as the Jinmao Tower, nor is it one of the city's beautiful Buddhist temples (although the Longhua Temple and Pagoda and the Jade Buddha Temple are both superb). Instead it is the Xiangyang Fashion Market on Shanxi Road, better known as the 'fakes market'. Here, despite the warning posted over the main entrance (see photo), Western visitors compete to wring the best deal for knock-off Burberry, Armani, Rolex, Gucci, Paul and Shark, etc. from the vendors. The market is split into three sections - A, B and C - with A-grade fakes the best, C the lowest quality.
Leaving aside the ethical and economic consequences of supporting counterfeiting on a mass scale, it is fascinating to observe the bargaining process on the stalls. Haggling over prices turns shopping into a sport, for participants and spectators alike.
Leaving aside the ethical and economic consequences of supporting counterfeiting on a mass scale, it is fascinating to observe the bargaining process on the stalls. Haggling over prices turns shopping into a sport, for participants and spectators alike.
posted by Justin Toland at 11:21 pm
1 Comments:
Hi, Justin. I am doing a project on fake fashion goods and its impacts on China innovation. Thats why I accidentally come across your blog about fake fashion goods in Xiangyang Market. Can I ask you about your opinion of fake goods from the point of view of purchaser? Thanks
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