iPhone price makes the difference

Comment on "Fewer Chinese consumers picking Apple's iPhone" (China Daily, July 25)

Like many consumer goods, Apple products such as iPhone cost much more in Chinese mainland than in the United States or even in Hong Kong. This price gap influences consumers' behavior and their attraction toward Apple products in China.

For instance, I have been thinking of buying an iPhone and an iPad for some time. But given their prices in China and overseas, I have decided to buy them during my next trip to the US.

The price difference is not restricted to Apple products. The prices of many other products of the same or even slightly inferior quality are significantly higher in China.

What increases such products' prices in China is the complicated distribution network. For the sake of Chinese consumers and to boost domestic spending, the authorities should take measures to change the distribution system.

A China Daily reader, on China Daily website

Culture boost to soft power

Comment on "EU 'students' get access to Chinese culture" (China Daily, July 26)

Culture is an important part of soft power. There are many examples in history that show disputes and even conflicts between the East and West, China and the outside world, were caused mainly because of misunderstanding. Many foreign countries and people know little about China, its history, culture and the way Chinese people think.

The program is thus a good opportunity for foreigners to know more about Chinese culture and history, which will not only help them better understand China, but also could boost tourism in the country.

Jiang Xinghe, via e-mail

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(China Daily USA 08/01/2013 page12)