China loses its allure

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Fascinating blog from The Economist on the way many multinationals are turning their back on China – not so much as a production source, although that trend is well documented, but as a market to sell goods into. Chinese companies are proving to be increasingly tough competitors, while a new consumer protection law to be introduced in March could make life even more difficult for foreign firms. In addition, with e-commerce rapidly on the increase, the brand value of many western clothes and designer goods does not command the price premium it once did. Interesting times lie ahead.