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| Ancient Chinese Capital Smiles at WTO |
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MON, NOV 12, 2001
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Citizens in this ancient Chinese capital were thrilled to hear the late-night news Saturday that the World Trade Organization (WTO) has finally opened its door to China.
But traditional Chinese pragmatism keeps their excitement in check.
"We now have a lot more to think about, as the 15-year marathon is over, and China will soon merge into the mainstream of the world economy," said Gao Youxiang, a professor from the Shaanxi Teachers' University.
Crowds of people gathered at newsstands in the streets Sunday, and the expressions on their faces was evidence of their pleasure at finally seeing China enter the WTO.
"I'm most concerned about how much WTO will affect the prices," said 22-year-old Kang Yijie. "I might even consider buying a car myself, if there is significant price cut."
China will break the monopoly in some industries after the WTO accession, said Zhang Feng, a reporter with Xi'an Television. "The general public will enjoy better services and more discounts in telecom, banking, insurance, shopping and tourism."
"WTO entry will offer new opportunities for career development," said Chen Ruifeng, a young worker. "And I may as well try to find a better job."
Though some foresee limited impact on certain industries, given the five-year readjustment period, most believe positive changes will come with time.
"I don't foresee much of an impact on China's postal service in the near future," said Wang Danxuan, an official from the provincial post and telecommunication administration. "But it's undoubtedly critical for the postal service industry to redefine its role and seek further development after the WTO accession."
In contrast, the country's film industry is expected to face much tougher post-WTO competition. "The introduction of more foreign movies will challenge the very existence and development of our own film industry," said a Chinese screen writer.
A farmer, however, voiced confidence in the post-WTO agricultural situation. "WTO is no doubt a challenge for China's agriculture and the farmers, but science, technology and agricultural industrialization will help us survive," he said.
WTO entry is a double-edged sword, said Rong Hai, president of a Xi'an-based private enterprise. "It brings pluses and minuses."
Costs will go down for local enterprises to tap the global market, so that more Chinese enterprises will draw experience from their worldwide counterparts, Rong said.
On the other hand, local enterprises must step up efforts to develop their own intellectual property rights and new technologies, he added.
"In any case, this is good news," said a 41-year-old teacher. "It will change our ways of thinking and working and our daily life.We will become a part of the world."
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