Overall, the purchase rates of various products
shed some light on the disparity in regional
economic development in China as well
as the local market conditions and consumer
characteristics. Durable goods are generally of
high values and closely related to the economic
status of the consumers. The coastal areas
and major urban centers such as Shanghai
and Beijing are undoubtedly more prosperous
than inland areas. Shanghai and Beijing residents
have higher ownership of durable goods,
while Xi’an and Chengdu have lower purchase
rates. However, it is interesting to note that in
the new emerging product categories such as