China’s recent dramatic price increases in food and other goods have led to violent confrontations in many cities. For many Chinese citizens, especially the retired elderly, the price increases are becoming more than what their paychecks can handle.
According to media in mainland China, on early morning of November 11, a mob of thirty-plus armed with knives and guns opened fire at the Kemu Langianhe pork market in Guangzhou City, Guangdong province. The group threatened and beat Deng, the manager of the pork marketing company.
Two shots were fired during the attack, and over ten people were beaten and injured with wooden and metal rods.
It is reported that the attack was organized by the marketing company preceding the current one to win back their business.
According to the newest data from China’s Department of Statistics, the price of metals has increased over ten percent since October 2007, while coal and gas have each increased by roughly five percent. The largest increase in 2007 has been seen in food, with an over eight percent increase.
During the past week, the price of pork across 36 major Chinese cities has increased by an average of over one percent, with the highest increase being nearly 19 percent in Changzi City of Shanxi Province. In addition, the pork price has doubled in Dalian City of Liaoning Province since last year.
While visiting Beijing’s poverty stricken populace earlier in November, Chinese premier Wen Jiabao admitted that stabilizing the economy has become one of China’s largest problems.
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