INSIGHT CCCFosteringHINHINHIN business and culturalAAA harmony between China and the U.S. VOL.6 NO.2 Copyright © 2007 China Insight, Inc. All Rights Reserved FEBRUARY 2007 A solution to environmental protection Natural fiber as an alternative renewable resource By Frank Liu obody questions the fact that are many drawbacks to their use, which are the world we are living in is be- changing our attitude toward them. For ex- coming more and more vulner- ample, there are growing concerns over the Nable to the shortage of natural environmental pollution caused by synthet- resources. Year-to-year increases in indus- ics in both developing and industrialized try production around the world and the ris- countries. Consequently, industry is turn- GUNG HAY FAT CHOY ing demands from the increasing population ing its attention once again to natural bast simply mean continuous depletion and ex- fibers that can be used in many different ploitation of natural resources until the day areas for supplementing and/or replacing we can find alternatives. The whole world synthetics. Today, natural fibers like kenaf, is making efforts to find alternative energy, jute, flax, hemp, and ramie are emerging as a alternative fresh water, and maybe someday, valuable renewable resource attracting at- alternative fresh air. But the truth is that we tentions from a diverse industry sectors will never be able to fully replenish those which could result in a revival of their eco- resources we have used or wasted. The en- nomic importance. It is estimated that the couraging news is that there are some things demand for fibers for clothing alone will rise that are renewable. They are renewable as from the current 60 million tons up to 130 long as the sun rises and sets. They are million tons per year by the year 2050, not to Kenaf is a warm-season anual row crop natural plant fibers. mention the demand for fiber for various (Photo credit: Wes Graham) We called this group of natural fiber other purposes. plants “bast fiber plant”, because the fibers and handling of goods. Natural fibers have found their applica- extracted are mainly from the stems (bark). Although synthetic fibers have brought These plants include kenaf, jute, ramie, flax, enormous benefits to everyday lives, there Natural fiber continues on Page 2 hemp and allied. Cultivation of these plants is almost as old as human civilization. Tra- ditionally, they have been used for making The Spring Festival ushers in ropes, twines, indigenous cloth and handi- crafts. In certain parts of China, Bangladesh Chinese New Year and India, kenaf and jute leaves and roots 100 Men’s Wife Page 9 are also used as a vegetable and medici- he Spring Festival is the most im nally. More than 12 million small and sub- portant festival for the Chinese sistence farmers in South and South-East people and is when all family mem Asia derive their livelihood from fiber plant Tbers get together, just like Christ- production, and hundreds of thousands of mas in the West. All people living away from other workers are employed in this industry home go back, making it the busiest time for and trade. As a natural fiber, they are sec- transportation systems. Airports, railway ond only to cotton. stations and long-distance bus stations are Kenaf is mainly grown in Asian coun- crowded with people returning home. tries like, China, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, The Spring Festival falls on the first day Thailand, and Indonesia. In China, most of the first lunar month, often one month kenaf production is in Yangtze River valley later than the Gregorian calendar. It originated including Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Hunan, Hubei, in the Shang Dynasty (c.1600 BC-c.1100 BC) Strictly speaking, the Spring Festival and Sichuan provinces. In a typical warm from the people's sacrifice to gods and an- starts in the early days of the twelfth lunar and humid climate with temperatures rang- cestors at the end of an old year and the month and lasts until the middle of the first beginning of a new one. Chinese New Year ing from 75 – 99 degrees Fahrenheit, kenaf Spring Festival continues on Page 15 Page 16 can grow to a height of 1.5 – 4.5 metres within a short period of 4-5 months. The average dry stem production of kenaf ranges Southwest China zoo has 16 from 8.1 to 16.2 tons per acre annually. This ALSO IN THIS ISSUE contrasts with the production of the fastest growing wood plant which needs at least 10 baby pandas Commentary / 2 to 14 years from plantation to harvest, and The Sichuan Wolong Panda Protection The heaviest tips the scale at just over produces only 3.2 to 4.9 tons per acre annu- and Breed Center is dealing with the results 24 pounds, while the lightest weighs about Sister-State / 3 ally. of a breeding boom -- 16 pandas have been 11 pounds. The pandas are due to stop suck- Kenaf and jute used to be called “golden born since July 2006. The brood includes ling by February 2007, just about the time Health / 4 fiber” with a glorious history. The past suc- five sets of twins. The cubs are weighed they'll start learning to walk. Once weaned, Education / 5 cess of natural plant fibers is due largely to and measured every five days. the panda cubs will attend panda kindergar- their environmentally-friendly properties: ten. In the meantime, more little ones are ex- Events / 6 & 7 they are comparable or superior to synthetic pected at the center since 38 giant pandas fiber in physical and chemical characteris- were artificially impregnated. „ Community / 8 tics; they are an annually renewable energy source with a high biomass production per Business / 10, 11, 14 unit land area; and they are biodegradable. However, in the 80’s and 90’s, the market of & 15 the traditional products like rope and bags Export / 12 were blown away by strong competition from synthetic materials and bulk transportation Trade / 13 PAGE 2 > FEBRUARY 2007 commentary www.chinainsight.info Into the west! CHINAINSIGHT Publisher/Editor: Steven Spielberg’s TV series? You with the Minnesota delegation led by Lieu- Gregory J. Hugh betya! But what else? How about four days’ tenant Governor Carol Molnau visited [email protected] adventure in Shaanxi province -- Shaanxi province in April 2006, along with Minnesota’s Sister-State in western China! several other delegates from Minnesota -to Associate Editor: Shaanxi Province is one of the most im- promote this sister-relationship and explore Jennifer Nordin portant cradles of ancient Chinese civiliza- cooperation opportunities. [email protected] tion. The capital city of Xi’an is a Our four days’ stay in Shaanxi has be- world-famous cultural city and an interna- come an eternal memory in my life time. Manager of Operations/Circulation/ tional tourist destination. As the economic Minnesota and Shaanxi has a long his- China Marketing/Web Master: center of Northwest China today, Shaanxi tory of friendship. During our stay in Xi’an, The famous Terracotta Army of Qin Richard He has established a comprehensive economic our delegation met with top officials from Emperor in Xi’an [email protected] provincial govern- ment, business and how much the delegation accomplished in Production Editor: educational lead- such a short period of time. Dawn Murphy ers, visited Xi’an As to me, who lived in Shaanxi for many [email protected] High Technology years, the city has changed a lot since I left, Zone (XHTZ), and some changes are good, and some are not Director of Marketing and others. Thanks to so good. Lots of new buildings rocketed up Communications: the excellent plan- from farmland, traffic is getting worse; people Cydne Washington ning work of the like my brother are used to a modern life [email protected] Minnesota Trade style with equipment like cell phones, Office (MTO) and laptops. There is also more pressure and Advertising Representatives: Foreign Affairs Of- stress on people. I can feel that the whole Amy Lau fice (FAO) from city is part of the revolutionary change [email protected] Shaanxi province, throughout the entire nation. the trip went well. Visits of XHTZ and trade fair were eye- Mike Xiong Every day we were opening trips. I was impressed by high effi- [email protected] impressed by what ciency and ambitious plans for the next we saw and what we Xi’an, capital city of Shaanzi Province decade. The Chinese government has imple- Staff Writers: heard. Invitations mented the strategy of West China Devel- Greg Hugh of reciprocal visits opment. As the center of the northwest [email protected] system with broad market capacity and un- for the state’s top officials were proposed, region of China, it has benefited from many limited business opportunities. and discussions started about a couple of preferential policies in regards to taxation, Jennifer Nordin As both a native from Shaanxi province educational delegation and cultural ex- land use, etc. which are advantageous for [email protected] and a Minnesotan, I was honored to travel change programs. It was hard to believe business development. Phil Lee Natural Fiber from Page 1 [email protected] tions in industries like, pulp and paper, au- tomotive, packaging, construction, home im- provement, animal feed, and environmental cleaning, etc. Products range from high- About CHINAInsight quality and specialty papers, reinforced plas- tic/composite, particle board, waste oil CHINAInsight is a monthly absorbent, reinforced plastics and compos- English-language newspaper ite, particle board, textile and geo-textile, etc. fostering U.S.-China cultural and Natural fi- business harmony. bers have the Paper made from kenaf potential to CHINAInsight is a member of compete with ternational Inc. (www.china The Minnesota Chapter of the glass fiber as consultinginc.com), based in Minnesota, Asian American Journalists reinforcing has undertaken a number of developmental Association (AAJA). agents in projects with partners from Asian countries. plastics. Besides technology and product develop- Submissions & Technology ment, CCG provided international platform Correspondence exists for in- for information exchange and technology corporating transfer. In 2003 CCG organized an interna- Insight welcomes guest jute/kenaf fi- CHINA Dried kenaf tional Symposium on Kenaf and Allied Fi- articles. Correspondence should ber with bers attracting participants from 17 Anshang village be addressed to: polypropylene yielding jute/kenaf compos- countries. As a follow-up, CCG will organize ite granules, which can be used in the second International Symposium on The visit to Anshang village made me Editor, CHINAInsight thermoforming processing techniques, such Kenaf and Allied Fibres in Xiamen, China on think about the common belief across the 6520 South Bay Drive as injection moulding and compressing moul- June 19-21, 2007. This international event nations. Humanity is such a universal belief Minnetrista, MN 55331 ding. This composite can be used in: the will bring together professional and busi- packaging industry manufacturing crates, that could bring people like An wei from Sino Tel: (952) 930-5252 ness developers to move the natural fiber American Society in China and volunteers boxes, cases for storage and transportation industry to a new stage. Fax: (952) 474-6514 of agricultural products; in the automobile from Globe volunteers in Minnesota together [email protected] as a team. Their noble legend in a rural vil- industry to replace glass fiber in door pan- About Frank Liu els and other parts; and as construction lage of western China will be remembered Frank Liu developed and managed a Letters to the Editor become materials. regardless of time. number of projects to promote the use of the property of CHINAInsight and Despite the promising industrial appli- I encourage you to consider Xi’an and natural plant fibers. He has been a guest may be edited for length and cation of natural fibers, it is still too early to other cities in Shaanxi Province when you speaker at various international conferences published. Articles will not be call it an established industry. Many factors travel as tourist or in search of business op- on natural fibers and actively promotes natu- published without the express need to be taken into consideration first portunities in China. You will be pleasantly ral fibers such as cellulose as sources of consent of the author. when setting up the kenaf industry, for ex- surprised at the eagerness and expertise renewable energy. He served as the Head of ample: large production base to ensure the which awaits you in government, business, Agriculture Division, International Jute Or- NOTICE TO READERS: The raw materials supply; government-enforced and tourist contacts. ganization under the United Nation Confer- views expressed in articles are the policies and regulations on environmental Support Shaanxi – Minnesota’s Sister ence on Trade and Development. He earned author’s and not necessarily those protection; and favorable investment envi- Province! „ his Ph.D. in Physiology and Biochemistry at ronments. More important is the driving Dong Li of CHINAInsight. Authors may the University of Georgia and MBA from force and leadership from the industry. President have a business relationship with Carson School of Management at the Uni- To take the lead in promoting and com- Shaanxi Association of Minnesota the companies or businesses they versity of Minnesota. He can be reached at mercializing natural fiber products, CCG in- Email: [email protected] discuss. frank.liu@ china consultinginc.com „ www.chinainsight.info sister-state FEBRUARY 2007 > PAGE 3 Xi’an and rural Shaanxi Province tours Unique Tours Celebrating 25th Anniversary of the Minnesota – Shaanxi Sister Relationship

his childhood family home as well as view well as homestays at the farms of locals who plore destinations unlikely on most itinerar- the modern primary school funded and built will open their homes, kitchens and bed- ies. through Project Peace, a project of Minne- rooms to tour members for meals and over- For more information on the upcoming sota-based Global Volunteers. The April night lodging. tours to Minnesota’s sister state Shaanxi, group will be honored guests at the open- There will be an opportunity to chat with China and to obtain a tour application, con- ing ceremonies of the village’s first annual teachers and students in primary and sec- tact Mary Warpeha by phone at 651-638- Folk Art Festival. The September group will ondary schools serving farm community 0743 or by e-mail at [email protected] witness the labor intensive harvest of the children as well as enjoy the escort of vil- or Rebecca Warpeha at 651-379-2425. For staple crop of corn and preparations for the lage elders in a meander through farms to more information on the US-China Peoples hardships of winter. Housing and meals will learn of age-old cultivation of subsistence Friendship Association, visit www.uscpfa- be provided by some of the 900 villagers. crops of rice, corn, peanuts, garden greens mn.org.„ The tour will also include a stay at and cash crops of wolfberry, mushrooms and The US—China Peoples Friendship As- Changqing National Nature Reserve. Trav- chestnuts. sociation of Minnesota and Shaanxi Peoples elers will be able to experience the beauty of The cost of the tour is US$2,050 which Association for Friendship with Foreign the Qin Ling Mountains in spring and au- includes hotels, farmstays, meals, domestic Countries will sponsor two tours of tumn on daily treks in this remote area of airfare, train fare, van transport, Member- Minnesota’s Sister State Shaanxi April 4-18, Southern Shaanxi Province. The tour will ship in USCPFA—Minnesota and donation 2007 and September 1-15, 2007. Both tours also meander lowland and highland trails at to USCPFA National. Individuals will be re- will be lead by Mary Warpeha, USCPFA- altitudes of 2500m in search of protected quired to arrange and self-pay international MN Chapter President and staff of the Panda, Takin, Golden Monkey, Crested Ibis, airfare to Beijing, donate to Project Peace Shaanxi PAFFC. Golden Pheasant and Giant Salamander. and the Primary and Middle Schools in Highlights of the tour will include a tour There will be 4-5 hour treks to view spring Huangyyangjie village and purchase travel of the Imperial Palace and Temple of Heaven and autumn foliage and flowers with stops insurance to include trip cancellation, lost in Beijing, travel in Xi’an, Shaanxi to visit for picnics and vistas of newly protected luggage, trip delay, medical and dental care the renowned site of the terracotta army, the forests of birch and pine. Local eco-tourism in-country, and medical evacuation. (Tour newly opened Tang Paradise Park, enter into guides versed in the biodiversity of the high organizers can assist with this purchase.) the actual barracks of the 8th Red Army as country will lead the treks. This tour is for active adults who are well as other fascinating sites in the city. This portion of the tour will include a excited about adventure travel in a remark- The trips will also include a stay at An stay at the Nature Reserve Hotel at 1100m able developing country filled with interest- Shang Village. Tour members will meet and If you want to know China, altitude with healthy authentic meals in the ing people and places will enjoy traveling 2007hear stories of Sino-American Society Presi- you must know a farmer only restaurant in Huangyyangjie village as with USCPFA-Minnesota. The tour will ex- dent and Friend-of-Minnesota, An Wei, in

Banpo Village Remains: A glimpse of ancient Chinese culture

site of the first excavation and opened to cupied with fishing and hunting. As a result the public in 1958. The discoveries included of the intertribal communal marriages, chil- numerous horse remains, some 200 cellars, dren were closely associated with their moth- over 150 adult tombs, over 50 child's burial ers from morning to night. Yet their fathers urns, pottery kilns and thousands of tools remained something of a stranger to them. such as knives, axes, They followed their chisels and sickles. mothers in the fam- All these depict the ily pedigree. The lat- production and lives ter period saw the of the Banpo ances- transition to ex- tors over 6,000 years ogamy. Women Example of pottery found in Banpo Village ago during the pros- took up farming, (Photo credit: travelchinaguide.com Fountain at entrance of Banpo museum perous period of the and managed the (Photograph by SHIN Heesung Banpo matrilineal clan soci- tribal affairs and the Village, China) ety. economic life as is about 3,000 square meters (about 0.7 acre) Banpo was a ma- well. Husbands and contains residential, pottery making and This is the second in a year-long series triarchal clan com- Huts in the ancient village of Banpo (Photo lived in the homes of burial sections. Since the Banpo Museum of articles about Minnesota’s sister state munity of the credit: travelchinaguide.com) their wives, and opened in 1958, there have been 2 million Shaanxi, China in celebration of the 25th Yangshao Culture. It they were also re- visitors.„ anniversary of the sister state relationship. was named after Yangshao Village which was corded together with their property in the Xi’an, the capitol city of Shaanxi Prov- discovered in Mianchi County, Henan Prov- family pedigree after their wives.”2 References: ince, China was a center of international trade ince in 1921. More than 400 sites similar to The Banpo Museum consists of an ex- 1. http://www.wordtravels.com/Attractions/ and one of the largest cities in the world Banpo have been found the Yellow River hibit area of about one acre divided into two Countries/China/Attractions/ during the Middle Ages. It is considered by Valley in the central plain of Shaanxi. Along Exhibition Halls and a Site Hall. The first Banpo+Village+remains/ many to be one of the cradles of Chinese with the many tools, excavations unearthed Exhibition Hall displays the unearthed relic 2. http://www.cnhomestay.com/city/xian/ civilization and is home to many world re- pottery chiefly made from refined terra-cotta exhibitions consisting of the First Hall and banpo.htm\ nowned archaeological finds. One such find and red sandy clay. Some objects of refined the Second Hall. The showpieces in the two is Banpo Village. The remains of the Banpo terra-cotta were decorated with zoomorphic halls are primarily production tools and do- Other references: Village “are the most complete example of an and geometric designs. mestic tools. In addition, artwork and adorn- http://score.rims.k12.ca.us/activity/banpo/ agricultural Neolithic settlement in the In the period spanning the late Paleolithic ments here reflect the social life, culture, art http://www.china.org.cn/english/chuangye/ world.” 1 and Neolithic Ages, women played an im- and inventions of the period. 42188.htm The Banpo Village remains are a few portant part in society. “This stage can be The second Exhibition Hall is primarily used http://www.travelchinaguide.com/attraction/ miles east of Xi’an between the Chanhe and divided into two periods: an early period and for auxiliary exhibitions and it contains two shaanxi/xian/banpo.htm Bahe rivers and cover over 500 square feet. a developmental period. As far as the first halls. Special shows are held here on eth- The village remains were excavated between period was concerned, women were engaged nology, folklore and the history of art re- “Wherever you go, go with all 1953 and 1957. A museum was built at the in collecting wild fruits while men were oc- lated to the prehistoric culture. The Site Hall your heart.” ...Confucius PAGE 4 > FEBRUARY 2007 health www.chinainsight.info

Common Chinese WHO Chief issues herb shown to bird flu warning According to BBC News Online, “[t]he very tenacious killer,’ Chan said. ‘We have new chief of the World Health Organization the tools, but we need to understand why reduce (WHO) has taken office, warning that bird we are not making progress.’ Some 3,000 flu remains a global threat. Margaret Chan, a children in Africa die from the disease every bird flu expert from Hong Kong, is the first day, she said. … WHO also intends to press hypertension Chinese citizen to become the head of a UN on with its campaign to eradicate polio, even agency. She said reports of bird flu had though it missed its original target of eradi- Some 50 million Americans have hyper- OMD; Fabiola A. Sánchez, PhD; Ricardo G. started to surface in recent weeks after a lull cating the disease worldwide by 2000. Some tension, that is, blood pressure measuring Durán, BS; Takehito Kanetaka, MD; and and that the danger was particularly severe public health experts question whether it is above the normal range (less than 120/80 Walter N. Durán, PhD, all of the Program in in poor countries. … feasible to rid the world of polio, an effort mmHg). If untreated, it can lead to heart at- Vascular Biology, Department of Pharmacol- Chan said the number of bird flu cases that has cost [US]$4 billion to date. Chan tacks, strokes, or kidney disease. Lifestyle ogy and Physiology and Department of Sur- had been increasing in recent weeks. The said she was reviewing what should be done changes are the first-stage treatment for the gery, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, WHO is particularly concerned about an now that the global campaign is using a more disease, but if they fail, medications are pre- Newark, NJ. outbreak on a poultry farm in Vietnam, the effective vaccine because ‘having a vaccine scribed. first in that country in almost a year. Chan is not good enough.’ ‘We need to have po- Many patients with high blood pressure Summary of Methodology pledged to take a hard line on countries that litical commitment from the four countries have sought relief from complementary and To assess the effect of tanshinone IIA, do not comply with requirements to carry that are still having problems with polio,’ alternative medicine (CAM). In so doing, the protocol consisted of several parts. The out checks against she said, referring to India, Afghanistan, Pa- many have consumed danshen, a Chinese researchers applied the 2-kidney-1-clip pro- bird flu or hinder glo- kistan and Nige- herb used in Oriental medicine that promotes tocol to induce renal hypertension in male bal efforts to develop ria, where the blood flow and treats cardiovascular disease. golden Syrian hamsters. The animals were vaccines. Her Chi- disease remains Tanshinone IIA is an active ingredient anesthetized and a retroperitoneal approach nese origin, she said, endemic. ‘We of danshen. Since tanshinone IIA is widely was used to place a silver clip to constrict would help her in any also need to work available, a team of researchers has used it the right renal artery. Sham-operated ham- dealing with the au- with the donor to investigate if this active ingredient can sters and mice underwent the same proce- thorities in China, the community to reduce blood pressure. In a recently released dure, except for the placement of a clip. country where the le- provide very study, using an animal model, the scientists Both sets of hamsters received 50 ?g of thal H5N1 strain of much needed re- have found that tanshinone IIA does reduce tanshinone IIA/100g of body weight once a bird flu first emerged. sources to really blood pressure. day for two weeks. After the two-week treat- … Chan also warned of the danger of a new move forward.’ The review will conclude Their study was published in the Ameri- ment period, mean arterial blood pressure flu pandemic, particularly if it took hold in ‘what action we need to put in place in the can Journal of Physiology – Heart and Cir- was measured in the right carotid artery. To countries with poor healthcare, where people next perhaps 24 months in order to achieve culatory Physiology (December 15, 2006), examine the microvascular actions of were already affected by diseases such as the target’ of eradicating the disease, Chan doi:10.1152/ajpheart.01027.2006, and is en- tanshinone IIA researchers applied it topi- HIV/AIDS. …” said. …” titled “Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase is cally to the hamsters’ cheek pouch or mice The Associated Press reports, “… More The New York Times reports that “Chan a Molecular Vascular Target for the Chinese cremaster muscles to achieve the final con- also needed to be done against older dis- took office … saying her two chief goals are Herb Danshen in Hypertension.” It was con- eases, such as malaria, Chan said. ‘We are ducted by the team of David D. Kim, PhD, Herb continues on Page 6 taking a new look at how to deal with this Bird Flu continues on Page 6 www.chinainsight.info education FEBRUARY 2007 > PAGE 5 Hopkins Public Schools to offer Chinese immersion program Eisenhower Elementary School, beginning in 2007–08 Hopkins Public Schools will open a lan- sion program, all subject matter will be taught guage immersion magnet program, offering in Mandarin Chinese for the full day. In most Mandarin Chinese, at Eisenhower Elemen- language immersion programs, English lan- tary School in Hopkins, beginning with the guage arts is introduced beginning in 2nd 2007–08 school year. The program will be- or 3rd grade, and there is an even distribu- gin with two sections of full–day kindergar- tion of English and the immersion language ten. Information meetings are planned for by 5th and 6th grade. In most immersion pro- 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, grams, art, music, and physical education and 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, at are typically delivered in English. Nurses, Eisenhower Elementary School, 1001 High- counselors, media specialists, English as a way 7, Hopkins. Second Language, special education, prin- Hopkins’ Chinese immersion magnet cipals, and office staff services are also in program will be fee–based in order to sup- English so they can be shared with the rest port the full–day kindergarten component, of the school. with scholarships available. All Hopkins Immersion is considered to be the most Public Schools’ families can choose to en- effective type of academic foreign language roll in the program. Transportation will be program available because students are im- provided to Hopkins Public Schools’ fami- mersed in the language all day, every day. lies choosing to enroll in the program, and Students develop proficiency in the immer- Kids & Company before– and after–school sion language and increased cultural aware- Dr. John B. Tsu child care will be available. There also will ness. Offering Mandarin Chinese is be slots available for open–enrolled stu- cutting–edge and innovative. There are only dents. Class sizes will range from 21 to 28 12 Chinese immersion schools in the coun- Memorial students, with the average per class to be try, one of which is located in St. Paul. about 23 students. A lottery system will be The program will be revenue–neutral. used if there is more demand for slots than Hopkins will be applying for local, state, and Fellowship offered allotted. federal grants to assist with teacher licens- A grade level will be added each year ing, curriculum, and staff development. through 6th grade. There will be no fees for For additional information, please con- by the International 1st through 6th grades. tact Eisenhower Elementary School at 952– Because Hopkins is offering an immer- 988–4300. „ Leadership U Women of Color Foundation The International Leadership Founda- With the generous support of the tion is looking for Asian American students Anheuser-Busch Corporation, the ILF of- provides support, who are likely to become future community, fers one Dr. John B. Tsu Memorial Fellow- academic, business or professional leaders, ship to honor the dedication and service to and who care about the community. Even the Asian American community of the camaraderie for students with no interest in government or founding ILF Chairman. The Dr. Tsu Fellow politics as a career are encouraged to apply. receives a US$5,000 stipend for a three- Grades and other academic achievements are month supervised public service internship a major factor in the evaluation process, but and research program. The Fellowship must University of they are not the only influence. The ILF be completed anytime within a year of the closely review letters of recommendation and student being selected. essays looking for evidence of future lead- An applicant must have at least one par- Minnesota women ership potential. There are many forms of ent of predominantly Asian or Pacific Is- Like many persons of color working in than just camaraderie and support since join- effective leaders. The ILF strives to iden- lander heritage. In addition to China, predominantly white Minnesota, University ing the University Women of Color (UWOC). tify quiet behind-the-scenes leaders in ad- Indonesia, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, the of Minnesota professional Ellyn Woo felt a UWOC is a relatively new University of dition to those who serve in student Pacific Islands, Taiwan, and the countries of need to connect with other women of color Minnesota organization that seeks to create government and other traditional leadership Southeast Asia, students of Indian, South- working at the U. But Woo has found more a space for all women of color within the roles. west Asian and Middle Eastern descent are university. It sponsors events and gather- Selections and scholarships are merit- also eligible. ings to build an active community, provide based. Students are responsible for all of An applicant must be a U.S. citizen. information and resources about the univer- their own travel, housing and living ex- (Most federal agencies will only accept citi- sity and broader Twin Cities community and penses associated with the fellowship. zen interns). create networks with others to help elimi- The ILF will arrange for a minimum eight- For more information on how to apply nate isolation and increase cross-cultural week long internship for the Fellow with a for the fellowship, visit http:// understanding and connections. government official and/or agency selected www.ileader.org. To apply for the fellow- "When I first joined the group, my goal to match the Fellows area(s) of interest. Fel- ship, go to http://en1.endiva.net/ileader/ was to connect with other women of color lows will also be required to attend manda- common/JobApplicationForm.asp? on campus," said Woo, a Student Service tory orientation, seminars, briefings, tours catid=2754&ctxid=2793 „ Specialist in the U of M Office of Human and other events. Resources. Only graduate students and graduating Woo has risen to a leadership position, college seniors are eligible to apply for a Dr. serving as a co-facilitator. In her new role, John B. Tsu Fellowship offered by the Inter- Woo has developed professional skills and national Leadership Foundation. The appli- Pictured are UWOC co-facilitators Toni personal growth. cation deadline for Dr. Tsu Fellows is March Coleman (right) and Ellyn Woo Women of Color continues on Page 6 31, 2007. PAGE 6 > FEBRUARY 2007 events www.chinainsight.info COMPLETE TAX PLANNING SERVICES US-China Business CUSTOMIZED FOR PERSONAL OR BUSINESS Connections to host two events ♦ Accounting Services ♦ Tax-Preparation Feb. 6 & 7 ♦ Quickbooks and The seminar will be held at Ramada Inn - Peachtree set up Mall of America (Exit 2A or 2B - Highway 494 and 24th Avenue South) at 2300 East ♦ Business Consultation American Boulevard, Bloomington, Minne- sota 55425. ♦ Financial Planning UCBC hosts American and Chinese People in Business on Feb. 7 MEG YOUNG UCBC will host the seminar American and Chinese People in Business: How we differ and How we are alike at its monthly 952-474-3567 breakfast meeting on Feb. 7 from 7:30-9 a.m. The seminar will be presented by Chi- 800-735-0106 nese business students in the Twin Cities. They will explain the ways in which Chinese DOYLE & ASSOCIATES business people differ from Americans in ex- TAX AND FINANCIAL SERVICES pectations, negotiations, in business rela- tions and at work. 5100 Thimsen Avenue, Suite 100 This seminar will be opportunity for American business people to learn about Minnetonka, MN 55345 UCBC hosts delegation from Qiqihar the impressions we create on Chinese busi- ness partners at work and in business deal- Hwy 7 and 101, SW corner on Feb. 6 ings US-China Business Connections The meeting will include breakfast, pre- (UCBC) will host a breakfast event for the sentation and Q & A session as well as time business delegation from the city of for networking. Reservations to attend the Qiqihar (pronounced Tsi-tsi-har) on Feb. 6 meeting can be made by e-mail: Herb from Page 5 from 7:30-9 a.m. [email protected] or by calling Jim centration of one ?g/ml or five ?g/ml. After IIA or danshen work in hypertension are not Qiqijar is a city of over 1.2 million people Smith at 612-865-6543. The fee is US$20 per the application of tanshinone IIA, the ex- yet fully understood, these results contrib- in the south west region of Heilongjiang person. College students can attend for free. periment was continued for an additional 60- ute to the effort to bring complementary and province, China's northernmost. Harbin is The seminar will be held at Minneapolis minute period in order to measure arteriolar alternative medicine and allopathic care Heilongjiang's capital. Historically, Qiqihar Community & Technical College diameter and peri-arteriolar nitric oxide con- closer together in the treatment of hyper- was founded in 1691 as a Chinese fortress (www.minneapolis.edu) 1501 Hennepin Av- centration. tensive patients. „ as this area of China was one of the main enue, Wheelock Whitney Hall Rm L3000 (3rd gateways from China to Russia and Europe. Floor) Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55403 Results JOURNAL PUBLICATION INFORMA- Qiqihar is a processing center for soybeans, Reservations for American and Chinese Tanshinone IIA was found to have sig- TION: American Journal of Physiology – potatoes, grain, and sugar beets. Manufac- People in Business received by Feb. 5 will nificantly reduced blood pressure in the ham- Heart and Circulatory Physiology Articles tures include steel, locomotives, diesel en- get free parking at MCTC Ramp. For more sters. The experimental constriction of the in Press, doi: 10.1152/ajpheart.01027.2006. gines, machine tools, wood and paper details, send an e-mail to renal artery increased mean arterial pressure Physiology is the study of how mol- products and cement. [email protected] to 161.2±6.9 mmHg relative to 114.3±9.2 ecules, cells, tissues and organs function to The event will include breakfast, presen- "UCBC is a non-profit organization pro- mmHg in age-matched hamsters. Treatment create health or disease. The American tation and Q & A session as well as time for viding an educational and networking fo- with 50 ?g tanshinone IIA/100g body for Physiological Society (APS) has been an networking. Breakfast is open to all UCBC rum for entrepreneurs and companies two weeks reduced the mean arterial pres- integral part of this scientific discovery pro- members and e-mail recipients. Reservations interested in developing business relation- sure from 161.2±6.9 to 130.0±7.8 mmHg. cess since it was established in 1887. are limited and granted on a first come - first ships with China." The research team also discovered that serve basis. Reservations to attend the For more information about US-China tanshinone IIA caused widening of the arte- © 2007 Newswise. All Rights Reserved. meeting can be made by calling Jim Smith at Business Connections: www.ucbcgroup.org 612-865-6543. The fee is US$20 per person. rioles in the hamster cheek pouch microcir- Bird Flu from Page 5 „ culation via enhanced expression of to improve the health of Africans and of endothelial nitric oxide synthase. The topi- women throughout the world. Women cal application of tanshinone IIA at one ?g/ face risks during pregnancy and childbirth Women of Color from Page 5 ml and five ?g/ml caused significant dose- that make them particularly vulnerable to "I found that in the past year and a half a community outreach coordinator in the related vasodilation, indicated by the in- health problems, said Chan… . On the I have learned a lot from the others on the University Relations department who is in creased agent/control ratio of arteriolar positive side, they can be powerful agents council," Woo said. "I gained some event charge of arranging community appearances diameters from 1.0 to 1.25±0.08 and 1.57±0.11, of change for better health. ‘Women do planning skills by helping with the planning throughout Minnesota by University Presi- respectively, in the hamster cheek pouch. much more than have babies,’ Chan said and organizing events we have held over dent Robert Bruininks. "Every time I partici- The increase in arteriolar diameter ratio was in a statement on the agency's Web site. the last year. I also enhanced my public pate in an event or gathering, I feel a strong significant relative to the vehicle for each Speaking to reporters [Jan. 4] by telephone speaking skills being a co-facilitator. This is connection to the women who experience concentration as well as for comparison be- from the health organization's headquar- a very supportive group of women that I similar feelings of isolation and invisibility tween the two concentrations of tanshinone ters in Geneva, she added that women can count on for honest feedbacks." as individuals. It is wonderful to be acknowl- IIA. were a rising influence in the work force It's a sentiment shared by other UWOC edged as a person rather than a representa- and in their communities -- particularly members. tive of my race." Conclusions since so many teachers and health care "UWOC provides an opportunity for all For more information on University As a result of the findings the research- workers were women. … women of color on the Twin Cities campus Women of Color (UWOC) visit its Web site: ers concluded that tanshinone IIA: (1) sig- [Jan. 4], she told her staff that ‘poor to network, share best practices and http://www1.umn.edu/uwoc/about.html or nificantly reduced blood pressure in health and poverty are closely tied, as are strengthen community," said UWOC co-fa- contact Toni Coleman at (612) 625-1597 or hamsters, (2) enhanced the expression of better health and the prospects for devel- cilitator Toni Coleman, an executive assis- Ellyn Woo, at (612) 625-3097 „ endothelial nitric oxide synthase, (3) in- opment.’ Efforts are needed to strengthen tant in the Intercollegiate Athletic creased the production of nitric oxide and the weak national health systems that are Department. Bob San, University News Service, (612) (4) induced blood pressure changes through Africa's biggest public health challenge, "I truly value the University Women of 624-4082 vasodilation in hamster blood microvessels. Chan said. But over all, she said, ‘These Color organization," said Wookie Freeman, While the mechanisms of how tanshinone are optimistic times for health.’ …” „ www.chinainsight.info events FEBRUARY 2007 > PAGE 7 19th Annual Two new Chinese Multicultural Forum language on Workplace newspapers in the Diversity Twin Cities Hosted by University of St. Thomas College of Business and National Inaugural issue of Huaxia Times pub- Black MBA Association, Twin Cities Chapter lished and distributed Minnesota Duowei Times inaugural is- Huaxia Times, a free bi-weekly Chinese- sue to go out Feb. 16 Presented by Thomson Corporation. language newspaper targeting both residen- Minnesota Duowei Times (MDT) will be tial and business communities throughout published weekly by One Stop China Cor- The mission of the Multicultural Forum Congressman and Atlanta mayor Minnesota published and distributed its first poration, an independent, privately owned is to advance diversity in the workforce by Professional development institutes: issue Jan. 26, 2007. Huaxia Times genuinely company headquartered in Plymouth, Min- enhancing awareness and understanding to Eight, half-day seminars designed to believes over the years much ground work nesota. It is partnered and supported by bring about an inclusive environment. providing in-depth information for knowl- has been laid to bridge Minnesota and Duowei News, the number one Chinese edge and skill building to advance workplace Greater China, but there is room to do more news group in the United States Pursuing the Dream: Inclusion, diversity through focused media alliance with major MDT is Opportunity & Empowerment Chinese newspapers and other media out- the first larg- Multicultural forum: lets. est, top-level February 20-21, 2007 Over 40 workshops providing practical Chinese St. Paul RiverCentre, St. Paul, Minnesota information, tools, how-to-solutions and newspaper awareness building on workforce and work- aiming to be a Who Attends place diversity mainstream This event is designed for profession- Chinese me- Expanded workshop offerings: dia to meet als who are responsible for diversity within Includes specialty tracks for those in- organizations of all sizes. It is also recom- the increasing terested in healthcare, legal/HR, education, demands on mended for anyone working in a multicultural small businesses and nonprofits. climate and those dealing with a diverse cli- information in entele. the Minne- Continuing education units: sota Chinese - managers, executives and professionals Including Society for Human Resources - diversity consultants community. Management (SHRM), Board of Children, Chinese population is projected to be more - human resource professionals Families and Learning, University of St. Tho- - educators than 30,000 in 2007. mas and Minnesota Continuing Legal Edu- MDT will provide information on every- - healthcare administrators cation (all pending) - recruiters thing for the new Chinese immigrants and help them to integrate into the main society. - lawyers from firm and corporate settings Networking opportunities: - small business owners MDT will promote community concept, More than 1,100 attendees from various volunteering community services, and core - non-profit executives employment sectors throughout Minnesota - prospective managers values in a democratic society that contrib- and the U.S. representing organizations utes to the betterment of our community. - graduate and undergraduate students plan- committed to advancing diversity. ning a business career MDT will provide the high quality ser- vices to all business owners in the commu- Over 140 career fair and resource Highlights Include According to Bruce Jia, Editor-in-Chief, nity. fair exhibitors Huaxia Times strives to make Minnesota MDT will eventually set up a private Keynote speakers: known to people and businesses in China, foundation to help many no-income non- Morning Keynote: Mark Zesbaugh, thus bring more interests to Minnesota for profit groups, new immigrants, and any CEO, Allianz Life For more information or to sponsor or business, tourism, education, real estate and needy Chinese people. Closing Keynote: Ambassador Andrew exhibit call 651-962-4385 e-mail: culture exchange. In the meantime, Huaxia Each issue of the newspaper will include Young, civil rights leader, former Georgia [email protected] or visit the Web site: www.stthomas.edu/mcf „ Times will serve the Twin Cities ever-increas- many articles on politics, economy, busi- ing Chinese population with premier con- ness, entertainment, sports, travel, health, tent on the latest accurate and timely local/ education, science & technology, and cul- “Old age, believe me, is a good and pleasant thing. It is true you U.S./China news, culture, education, busi- tural activities. It will include articles on lo- are gently shouldered off the stage, but then you are given such a ness, finance, technology, health, lifestyle, cal Chinese events taking place in the comfortable front stall as spectator.” ...Confucius sports and leisure information that trans- Minnesota. forms and transcends geographic and time * Circulation: up to 5000 zones. * Large size (broadsheet), same size as Star Thank you for reading CHINAInsight. Huaxia Times is scheduled to print 5,000 Tribune copies of every issue, 24 issues a year, for * 24 sides (12 pages) with color pages in the over 30,000 regular readers through both its front and back controlled circulation via its proprietary read- * Publish weekly CHINAINSIGHT ership database, and through mass distri- * Professionally edited with rich content Subscription Order Form bution via newspaper stands at over 50 * Partnered and supported by the number businesses, non-profit organizations, college one, independent Chinese news group in 11 issues - $24.00 for a domestic subscription and $40 for International. campuses and adults/children specialty the USA, Duowei News schools. The newspaper is free and will be dis- Please make check payable to CHINAInsight, 6520 South Bay Drive, Minnetrista, Huaxia Times positions itself as an al- tributed primarily at main Chinese restau- MN 55331 ternative marketing vehicle to the Twin Cit- rants, grocery stores and educational Name: ______ies media and advertising circle to reach out facilities. It will also be available by sub- to the Chinese community that corporate scription and the Internet in the near future. Address: ______America has yet to scratch the surface. „ Huaxia Times is published by Huaxia Editor’s Note: Previously, China Tribune City/State/Zip: ______Times, LLC, an independent, privately was the sole Chinese language newspa- owned company headquartered in per serving the community. Telephone: ______Minnetonka, MN. Learn more about Huaxia Times and how LET US HEAR FROM YOU Email: ______you and/or your business can support and Have an observation or comment about Signature: ______benefit as a reader and/or as an advertiser, please contact Bruce Jia at 612-998-8080 or something you read in CHINAInsight? at www.huaxiatimes.com. Write a Letter to the Editor PAGE 8 > FEBRUARY 2007 community www.chinainsight.info Shaanxi Association of Minnesota By Richard He, Staff Writer n Sunday, Jan. 28, 2-7p.m., The Shaanxi Association of Minne- sota was inaugurated and held Oa party to celebrate the Chinese Benefit concert by lunar New Year at Gramercy Park Co-op in Richfield. Shaanxi is the sister state of Minnesota. local teenagers to This year marks the 25th anniversary of this sister-state relationship. The timing could not be better for the birth of this organiza- support charities tion. or a lot ABC (American-born Chi- that they otherwise could not afford. Mr. Dong Li, the President of this asso- nese), they take many things for China Service Ventures (VSV) is a non- ciation, introduced the board members and granted that they enjoy in the profit group that is committed to fostering guests from Minnesota Trade Office (MTO), United States. For example, going relationship between Christians in North Global Volunteers, US-China Peoples Friend- F to high school is not a big deal here, but in American and communities in China. The ship Association. Fred Hsiao, President of China, high school education is not free and CSV Education Project provides tuition, Shaw-Lundquist Associates, Inc., the larg- therefore not affordable to many students. room and board to impoverished students est minority-owned contractor in the Mid- There are still many talented but impover- in Henan Province, where many Missionar- west, and the largest Asian-owned ished students even in big cities like Beijing; ies from North American and Europe did their contractor in the nation, who was born in they can not finish high school due to fi- ministries in the early 20th Century. Nick’s Shaanxi in 1919, is the Honorary President nancial difficulties. It is even more difficult father is a former pastor in a local Chinese for this association and delivered a brief for students in remote or country areas. church here in Minnesota and has been in- message. Fred and his wife Jennie Hsiao Here in Minnesota, two teenagers, volved in this ministry for several years. Nick helped to provide the Gramercy Park Co-op Melody Hu (11th grade, 15 years old, wants to show his support to this program facility for this party and also donated Wayzata High School, Founder of Hongzhi too. US$500 to this newly established organiza- Donation Program, studied piano for 9 years), That is when Melody and Nick got the tion to show their support. Tony Lorusso, and Nick Qiu idea to organize a benefit concert together. Director of MTO, attended this celebration (10th grade, 15 years old, Woodbury This took so much passion and dedication to show the support from the State of Min- High School, studied piano for 8 years) both from the two teenagers. They had to gather nesota. He also talked briefly about the rela- piano students of Dr. Joseph Zins, have been a group of performers, select a concert site, tionship between Shaanxi and Minnesota organizing a benefit concert to support the prepare for the program (to include a few and congratulated the inauguration of the Hongzhi Donation Program and China Ser- traditional Chinese songs), practice, and re- Shannxi Association in Minnesota. Jim vice Ventures Education Project. hearse. This is besides the busy schedules Swiderski, Director of Business Development The “Hongzhi” (which mean being am- of their own regular high school course work from Global Volunteers also delivered a con- bitious and courageous) Class is a very and activities. gratulatory message. There was a perfor- popular charity program in China to help stu- The concert will feature award-winning mance, potluck and buffet-type dinner for dents with financial hardships to finish their young pianists from the Twin Cities, includ- this well-attended celebration. high school courses so they can get a chance ing winners of prestigious young artist pi- Reporters from Huaxia Times also at- to go to college. Melody got to know this ano competitions such as Music Teacher's tended to report on this celebration. program from her aunt who did some reports National Association Competition and For more information about the Shaanxi and marketing on this program as a TV re- Schubert Club Student Scholarship Compe- Association of Minnesota, please visit the From top: Shaanxi Association President porter a couple of years ago. She established tition, among others. Some pianists were Web site: www.shaanxi-mn.org. Mr. Dong Li, Shaanxi Association Honor- „ the Hongzhi Donation Program in Minne- featured on the television show Music da ary President Fred Hsiao andShaanxi As- Editor’s note: Check out the local Chinese sota and started to collect donations in 2006. Camera and NPR's From the Top. sociation Guests New Year events on Page 16. She also created the Web site for her cause: The concert will take place on Saturday, http://hongzhidonation.googlepages.com. March 3 at 7 p.m. at St. Anthony Park The Hongzhi Donation Program is a non- Lutheran Church in St. Paul. Tickets are profit organization that provides financial US$10-15. For information, contact Melody support and sponsorship to talented but Hu at 763-205-2065 or impoverished students in Beijing, allowing [email protected] „ them to complete the high school education Top: HongZhi Class supported by Melody’s HongZhi Donation Program

Above: Young Pianists Melody and Nick

Left: CSV Staff with Students in a village in Henan Province www.chinainsight.info events FEBRUARY 2007 > PAGE 9

to visualize what the actors are experiencing able to schools. For many of its plays, the during flashbacks and nightmares. History Theatre develops a study guide that 100 Men's Wife Another underlying theme of the play is will help teachers assist students in prepar- the conflict that May Seen experiences while ing for the experience of a live theatrical pro- trying to decide whether or not to convert duction at the History Theatre so that they brings community to Christianity or to continue to follow her may comprehend and appreciate the play in traditional Chinese spirituality beliefs. a more thorough and engaging manner. Ide- ally, students may come away with a deeper together understanding of the subject and its rel- evance to the world around us. By Greg Hugh, Staff Writer The curriculum themes for educators on n Sunday, Jan. 21, 2007, the His Completing the creative team that devel- 100 Men's Wife, includes the following top- tory Theatre served as the venue oped the play is Director Suzy Messerole. ics: sexual abuse and recovery; women's is- for the world-premier of 100 She also has been involved with the story sues and role of women; cultural identity; Men's Wife, a moving love story since its conception over 2 years ago. As immigration; Asian American stereotypes; O interracial dating; and humor. that at times was very tragic but had its hu- noted by her, "One of the great challenges morous moments. It was followed by a gala in directing this play is learning the history This Education Program at the History reception to welcome the granddaughter of of the time. I was never taught about the Theatre thus offers a great opportunity for the play's principal character, Liang May Chinese Exclusion Act in school and it was students to be entertained while learning and Seen. The event was organized by the Chi- really eye-opening to study the history of even includes the chance to meet the cast. Woo Yee Sing comforts May Seen after nese Heritage Foundation which provided a discrimination faced by early Chinese immi- Although 100 Men's Wife took place she has a bad dream. Photo: History grant to the History Theatre to produce the grants to America. The racial injustice over 100 years ago, much of the subject Theatre play. against Chinese workers in this matter is still relevant today as attested to previously by Jeany Park and Suzy Not wanting to give away the whole Messerole. story of May Seen, 100 Men's Wife is a play 100 Men's Wife continues at the History that tells the dramatic story of the first fe- Theatre until February 10, 2007. For tickets male Chinese immi- grant to Minnesota while faithfully adher- ing to historic facts and traditions of the period and yet remains relevant today. Now starting its 29th year, the History Theatre has previ- ously produced over 100 new plays and mu- Honored guests meet at reception: (L toR) Suzy Messerole, Director, Janey Park, Play- sicals by 80 play- wright, Sun Mee Chomet, Actress (May Seen), Barbara Woo Bjornass, granddaughter of wrights and May Seen, Rose Le Tran, Actress, Ming L. Tchou, Founder of Chinese Heritage Founda- composers. The tell- tion. Photo: Greg Hugh ing of real stories Three generations of May Seen’s family and other relatives get about real people is, together at the reception. Photo: Greg Hugh The near capacity audience included al- country...both in Gold Mountain and in the and has been their most 300 members representing 26 Chinese legal immigration system...is really horrify- forte. 100 Men's Wife is the latest story that call 651-292-4323 or visit the Web site at organizations that were co-sponsors of the ing." continues an incredible journey and discov- www.historytheathre.com for more informa- event. The reception that followed the play ery about the people of the Midwest and tion about the Education Program. provided the community a chance to wel- about the diverse culture and history that is Also, additional articles on the Chinese come home the granddaughter of May Seen, shared. Heritage Foundation and 100 Men's Wife Barbara Woo Bjornaas, and other relatives Another aspect of the History Theatre can be read in past issues of China Insight who represented three generations of May is its Education Program which is made avail- at www.chinainsight.info. „ Seen's family. It was also an opportunity to meet the cast, playwright and director of the play. This new play by Janey Park follows the Wolves host Asian Night, life of Liang May Seen, the first Chinese woman to immigrate to Minnesota. Rescued defeat Rockets in overtime from a San Francisco brothel, May Seen came to Minneapolis to become the wife of a suc- Yao Ming absent due to injury cessful Chinese-American businessman, Woo Yee Sing. This dramatic love story By Jennifer Nordin, Staff Writer chronicles her struggles to escape the hor- rors of her past and what she had to endure The Timberwolves faced the Houston to succeed and adjust to married life in 1920's Rockets on Sunday, Jan. 7 for the third time Minneapolis society. this season. Noticeably absent was Hous- The title of this original play is taken from ton Rockets’ #11, center, Yao Ming. The 7- Sun Mee Chomet in her portrayal of Liang the term that the Chinese in San Francisco 6, 310-pound Yao fractured the bone under May Seen used to describe the large number of Chi- his right knee on Dec. 23, 2006 in a game nese female prostitutes, "baak haak chai," The task of portraying the range of all against the Los Angeles Clippers. It re- (100 men's wife) that arrived in California the emotions that must have been experi- mains to be seen if he will be recovered from between 1850 and 1880 of which many were enced by May Seen is undertaken by Sun his injury and well enough to play by the lured there from China under false pretenses Mee Chomet, who is making her first ap- time the Rockets face the Timberwolves The Chinese American Association of Min- The idea for this story began over 2 pearance at the History Theatre. The role of again at Toyota Center in Houston on Mon- nesota Chinese Dance Theater performsed years ago when Ron Peluso, Artistic Direc- Woo Yee Sing is played by Sherwin day, Feb. 5. during halftime tor of the History Theatre, came across some Ressurreccion who also is making his debut The Wolves beat the Rockets 103-99 in in the NBA draft to come from an interna- information on the life of May Seen at the appearance at the History Theatre. Both of overtime. It may have been to the Timber- tional league. He was drafted in 2002 at the Minnesota Historical Society. He felt that is these actors did an admirable job of project- wolves’ advantage that Yao was inactive. age of 21. Yao unanimously earned All- was a story that needed to be told and even- ing the obvious frustrations of these indi- This season, before his injury, Yao Ming was Rookie First-Team honors, was voted Rookie tually invited Janey Park to get involved. viduals attempting to forget about their past averaging 26 points and nine rebounds in of the Year by NBA executives in The Sport- When asked what the hardest thing about and adjust to their present situations 27 games. Yao was also averaging 34.6 min- ing News. He has played on the Chinese writing this play was, Park commented, "It through the words and actions of the play- utes per game, an 86.7 free-throw percent- National Team each summer since he joined was difficult to make this story a real life wright and director. At times the audience age and two assists per game—all career the NBA and played five seasons with the drama and not just a documentary." She also has to interact in some parts of the play and bests. Shanghai Sharks before he was drafted. Yao spoke of the inspiration she derived from become involved since some scenes require This is Yao Ming’s fifth season in the working on May Seen's story. the audience to use their own imagination NBA. Yao is the first number-one overall pick Timberwolves continues on Page 11 PAGE 10 > FEBRUARY 2007 business www.chinainsight.info OWN A NEW HOME Lenovo leads China 9712 GEISLER RD EDEN PRAIRIE to go global Lenovo and TCL have won international Lenovo have been moved to Raleigh, North fame as pioneers of corporate China’s ef- Carolina and English has become the main forts to “Go Global” by buying well-known language of executive discussion. The clear international brands. Television giant TCL game-plan has been to establish Lenovo as went to France and acquired the TV and a global consumer brand, expanding the DVD-player operations of Thomson and market reach of IBM’s ThinkPad laptops and mobile phone business of Alcatel. Lenovo, ThinkCentre PCs. last year, bought IBM’s iconic PC unit. This year [Lenovo] launched a US$100 For TCL, pioneering glory quickly led to million program to revamp the IBM unit, in- a dramatic fall from grace. A joint venture cluding a 5 [percent] cut in the workforce with Alcatel unraveled last year and it an- and big investment in sales and distribution nounced recently that it would shut most of channels in the United States where IBM its TV operations in Europe because of es- had focused on selling to big corporations. Arthur Lee wishes the readers of HINAInsight C calating losses. Its setbacks have underlined Analysts say much of Lenovo’s recent

Happy Chinese New Year! the challenges faced by Chinese companies success stems from Lenovo chairman, Yang ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○

○○○○○○○○○○ trying to marry low-cost manufacturing at Yuanqing’s decision to replace former chief NEW! Custom built 2 story- open plan, 5 BR, 4 bath, 3 car garage, 4 home with established global brands. executive Steve Ward with William Amelio, season porch, hardwood floors, 4,200 sq. ft. above. Stainless steel For Lenovo, it is a different story. It is Dell’s former head in Asia. Lenovo’s effort appliances, gourmet kitchen, granite countertops, cherry cabinets emerging as a positive example of how Chi- to turn around the IBM unit is supported by throughout. Near park & trail, Eden Prairie schools. nese companies can digest acquisitions. strong performance at home. The strong Even before the US$1.75 billion purchase of sales in China give Lenovo the cash flow to

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ the IBM unit, completed in May last year, sustain losses in overseas market due to which made Lenovo the world’s third larg- weak brand awareness in the United States. est PC maker, it had been seen as one of “If you look at HP and Compaq, they China’s best-run companies. Foreign con- took four or five years to integrate a Texas sultants had helped it adopt world-class culture and a California culture,” Lenovo’s management techniques. After the deal, it Chief Executive, William Amelio says. “When quickly sealed a strategic tie-up with the U.S. you try to merge a U.S. company and a Chi- private equity groups to give it access to nese company, it is going to take a lot longer international industry expertise so it could to make it successful.” However, he adds, Cell: 612-751-0982 challenge industry leaders such as Dell and “But I am confident in our ability to execute Hewlett-Packard. our action plan to transform this company.” Direct: 763-416-2487 Arthur Lee Fax: 763-416-2499 The executive headquarters of new Source: NAROS „ [email protected] China, U.S. reach NAROS and Lurie tax pricing Besikof Lapidus, agreement L.L.P. form Tax authorities have reached the first Companies may buy goods and ser- agreement with their U.S. counterparts that vices at unreasonably high prices from could resolve potential double taxation dis- other firms, possibly subsidiaries or parent strategic alliance putes involving retail giant Wal-Mart. companies in different economies, to lower The Minneapolis-based accounting firm U.S.-China business exchanges. In a statement on the first bilateral ad- their profits, thus reducing their income tax Lurie Besikof Lapidus & Co., LLP (LBL) and Working with LBL will allow NAROS to vance pricing agreement (APA) between the in selected countries. Tax authorities of the the North American Representative Office reach out to the Minneapolis business com- two countries, the Chinese State Administra- countries involved would be required to of Shenzhen, China (NAROS) have entered munity, develop a larger contact network in tion of Taxation (SAT) said the agreement cooperate to regulate transfer pricing. into a strategic alliance, whereby the two the mid-west, and eventually attract more concerning Wal-Mart made it possible for tax The Chinese and U.S. tax authorities organizations have agreed to work closely investment and trade projects to Shenzhen. departments and the retail giant to resolve reached the agreement on Dec. 22, 2006 af- together in matters pertaining to U.S.-China Similarly, NAROS will add value to LBL by transfer pricing issues before they arose dur- ter two rounds of talks in Beijing and Wash- business. NAROS and LBL’s China Strate- providing a great resource for China busi- ing an audit. ington. gies Consulting Group have signed a memo- ness, all free of charge and in the interest of Tax experts said transfer pricing issues Wal-Mart Stores Inc, which operates randum of understanding outlining ways in mutual benefit. „ involved unreasonable pricing by corporate in China, submitted the formal application which they can work together and promote Source: NAROS and individual taxpayers through transac- to the two tax authorities in June 2006. tions made to evade taxes. Tax Pricing continues on Page 11 Citigroup-led consortium wins China Bank bid Citigroup, America’s largest banking in- International Business Machines Corp. stitution confirmed that a Citigroup-led con- (IBM), headquartered in New York, will have sortium has been selected to acquire a a 4.74 percent share. Two China-based com- majority stake in one of China’s biggest re- panies, China Life Insurance and State Grid gional financial institutions, Guangdong Corp., will each get 20 percent. Beijing-based Development Bank (GDB). According to CITIC Trust will hold a 12.85 percent share Citigroup, the consortium will obtain an 85.6 and Yangpu Puhua will get 8 percent. The percent stake in GDB for US$3.06 billion. Citigroup continues on Page 11 www.chinainsight.info business FEBRUARY 2007 > PAGE 11 Home Depot buys China stresses China's The Home quality of its Way inbound foreign U.S. home improvement retailer Home Home De- Depot Inc. said it had signed an agreement pot has been to buy Chinese home improvement chain The looking to set investment Home Way, marking its first foray into retail- up stores in China published its 11ith five-year plan information, petrochemicals, chemicals, au- ing in China. The acquisition will give it 12 China for at (2006-2010) for utilizing foreign investment. tomobiles and infrastructure. Taking part in stores in six cities and access to a US$50 least two Published on the National Development and restructuring of traditional industries such billion home improvement market that is years. The Reform Commission’s (NDRC) Web site, it as machinery, light industry, textile, raw ma- growing at 20 percent per year. company states the priority of policy will be given to terials and construction are also encouraged The purchase of the Chinese stores opened pur- the quality rather than quantity of such in- to foreign businesses. Environment protec- comes as Home Depot looks to establish chasing offices in Shanghai and Shenzhen vestments. “This is an important measure tion, including the control of water and air multiple platforms for growth, including for- in 2002 and received approval from China's taken by China in creating a stable and trans- pollution and recycling will be welcomed as eign expansion and a move into professional government to invest in stores there in 2005. parent foreign investment management sys- well. markets, as its retail stores approach satura- Although specific terms of the deal were tem as well as a fair and predictable policy In the service sector, China will fulfill its tion in the United States. Privately owned not disclosed, Home Depot said the deal had environment.” the NDRC said. duties under the World Trade Organization The Home Way Co. Ltd., based in the east- received necessary Chinese government Priority will be given to the introduction (WTO) and open its banking, insurance, ern port city of Tianjin, plans to use part of regulatory approvals.„ of advanced technologies, management ex- securities and telecommunications sectors the proceeds from Home Depot to pay down Source: NAROS pertise and high-quality talents. More at- to foreign investment in a positive and pru- debts owed to its suppliers. tention and focus will be given to the dent manner. Also, it will introduce business protection of environment and efficient use process outsourcing (BPO) investment into of natural resources. the coast cities which are in the process of China will continue to encourage foreign upgrading their industries. „ U.S. car investment in agriculture, electronics and Source: NAROS entrepreneur Timberwolves from Page 9 Tax Pricing fro Page 10 is also a four-time NBA All-Star (2003, 2004, Chinese tax officials said that China had 2005, 2006). previously reached similar agreements with Yao has proved to be a shining example Japan and refurbishes plans in of athleticism, sportsmanship and good will. the Republic This spokesman for Apple Computers, Visa, of Korea. Reebok, Gatorade and McDonald’s hosted The APA China a multi-national telethon to raise funds to program also Arizona based auto-industry entrepre- Chery Automobile Company. However, the battle SARS in 2003. He participates in the enables tax- neur Malcolm Bricklin, a promoter of Chi- quality and safety standards of its newest NBA’s Basketball Without Borders and pur- payers and nese car makers' prospects in the U.S. market, models fall short to succeed in the United chases tickets to Rockets home games for the SAT to said his company Visionary Vehicles LLC States, so this plan of selling Chery cars to disadvantaged youth. In 2006 Yao joined a work together to resolve potential double has decided it must design and engineer its the U.S. market starting from 2007 has been campaign to support the protection of wild- taxation disputes. own car models in the United States and dropped, his company currently is seeking life. As a part of his involvement, Yao SAT Commissioner Xie Xuren said he is look to China to assemble them. Bricklin to develop new vehicles itself and look for pledged to give up eating a Chinese deli- pleased the agreement has been reached. signed an agreement to distribute cars in several Chinese OEM manufacturers to pro- cacy, shark’s fin soup. On and off the court, "We're working more closely with the the United States with Chinese auto maker, duce them. „ Yao Ming is an ambassador of China to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service with the de- world. velopment of economic cooperation be- At the Jan. 7 game the Timberwolves and tween the two countries," he said. „ China Insight featured Asian Night. This Source: China Daily was the fifth year the Timberwolves and Internet users on China Insight held a Chinese Night or Asian Night for fans during a game versus the Citigroup from Page 10 Houston Rockets. Although Yao Ming was New York-based Citigroup itself will hold a the rise in China absent, before the game, fans could see ex- 20 percent stake. amples of beautiful Chinese calligraphy, lis- There are 123 million internet users, (also 70 percent of all internet users access the Guangdong Development Bank, which ten to traditional Chinese music, as well as called netizens), in China, but what makes internet from home, compared to nearly 40 is owne by the provincial government, is observe the Chang Mi Korean dance and this industry with all the related advertising percent doing so at work. Internet Cafés are based in the fast-growing industrial prov- drum performance. and retail even more attractive is the large also a common location with nearly 30 per- ince that is adjacent to Hong Kong. It has potential for even big- cent making use of their some 12 million consumer customers, 9 mil- ger growth. Penetra- facilities, followed by lion cardholders and more than 12,000 em- tion rate in China is schools. ployees. Citigroup has been fighting since still only 9.4 percent. In terms of which last year to buy the Chinese bank and the Encouraging for the services are most fre- announcement of the deal indicates that it related industries is quently used by Chi- will be able to expand its operations in China. the number of broad- nese netizens, news, Citigroup currently has branches in six Chi- band users is also on search engine and e- nese cities. Citigroup said,” this transaction the rise. It increased mail, as well as instant represents the first time a major international financial services company, leading a con- by 45 percent to a to- messaging and forums Chinese calligraphy artist tal of 77 million. For rank the top. Obtaining sortium of co-investors, has been permitted service providers of information about prod- to obtain substantial ownership and assume As part of Asian Night activities, the games and broadcast- ucts, services, and job a significant management role in a Chinese Chinese American Association of Minne- ing, this is very impor- opportunities are also financial institution.”„ sota Chinese Dance Theater performed dur- tant as they require used quite often, as well Source: NAROS ing halftime. Seventy performers, from high bandwidth. as listening and down- young children to adults, in bright colorful These figures reveal loading of music, vid- Visa to China dress entertained the crowd with traditional an immensely growing market for advertis- eos and files. Internet games and online Chinese dance. The captivating performance Fast Safe Cheap ers, service providers and online marketing shopping is not as high on this list as most also included a spectacular lion dance. In MN China Tribune Visa Service Center companies. service providers might like to see, but still addition to Asian Night festivities, the Tim- 566 N Selling Ave., St. Paul, MN 55104 The main intention of the internet in attracts in China with remarkable numbers. berwolves also sponsored the Underprivi- Tel: 651-644-4294 or 651-387-0234 China is still for personal use. Approximately Source: Klako Group „ leged Kids program.„ Fax: 651-644-4295 PAGE 12 > FEBRUARY 2007 export www.chinainsight.info

vices. The Origin of Movement series used Total, Third Quarter, 2006: $3.7 billion above show where goods originate and Figure 4 Minnesota where the most economic impact occurs. „ Minnesota Manufactured Exports Total Third Quarter, 2006: $3.7 billion Figure 1 Table 1 Quarterly Export Minnesota's Quarterly Manufactured Ex- Growth in Manufactured Exports, by Coun- ports try Between Third Quarters of 2005 and Figure 2 2006 Statistics Manufactured Exports by Region Table 2 MN Total, 3rd Qtr, 2006: $3,692 million Growth in Manufactured Exports, by Indus- Figure 3 try Between Third Quarters of 2005 and Export Growth Slows But Still Up Minnesota's Manufactured Exports 2006

4.6 Percent in the Third Quarter Figure 1 Minnesota’s exports from manufactur- · The state’s exports to China (including ing industries were valued at US$3.7 billion Hong Kong) decreased by 12 percent, driven in the third quarter of 2006 – a record high by its lower demand for computer and elec- for the third quarter – representing a growth tronics (the main export to China from Min- rate of 4.6 percent between the third quar- nesota) by 52 percent to US$70 million. In ters of 2005 and 2006. U.S. export growth contrast, China posted the second largest was exceptionally strong, at 16.2 percent, value change in U.S. exports of all coun- during this period. (See Figure 1) tries. Canada continued to provide some of · Exports to Ireland plummeted by 39 per- the strongest growth export opportunities cent as sales of miscellaneous (including for businesses in Minnesota and across the medical) goods and computers and electron- nation. Thailand and Korea also were strong ics – which accounted for 90 percent of performers. Minnesota’s exports to Ireland – plunged. Weaker demand for Minnesota’s com- (See Figure 3 and Table 1) puters and electronics products, and medi- cal products by China and Ireland – the top Strong Gains in Transportation Equip- markets for these products, respectively – ment and Machinery Offset by De- dampened Minnesota’s overall export clines in Other Industries growth in the third quarter. The slower growth in the third quarter · The strong export gains of transporta- resulted in the state’s year-to-date export tion equipment (up US$75 million, Canada and Israel had the strongest gains) and ma- growth rate lagging the national year-to-date Figure 2 export growth rate, contrary to earlier in the chinery (up US$53 million, China and Korea year. Between the first nine months of 2005 had the strongest gains) were largely offset and 2006, Minnesota exports grew by 12.9 by decreased exports of computers and elec- percent, slightly slower than the U.S. export tronics (down US$53 million) and miscella- growth rate of 14.7 percent. neous goods (US$73 million). · Exports of transportation equipment Markets in North America and Asia grew the most to Canada and Israel (ranked 18th overall). Exports of these goods to Is- Lead in Growth rael (mainly consisting of aircraft parts) grew Minnesota’s businesses sold goods in by 391 percent to US$30 million, contribut- approximately similar shares to countries in ing to the overall growth of 101 percent to Asia (31 percent), North America (29 per- US$44 million in the state’s exports to this cent) and the European Union (29 percent). country. In contrast, the national distribution in manu- · Exports of miscellaneous (including factured exports leans more toward coun- medical) products declined by almost 14 per- tries in North America (35 percent), and less cent between the third quarters of 2005 and toward Asia (25 percent) and the European 2006. Because Ireland purchases about 75 Union (20 percent). (See Figure 2) percent of Minnesota’s exports of these The state’s businesses increased their goods, its 37 percent drop in demand (val- sales by the most value to North America ued at US$102 million) determined the over- (US$138 million, mainly to Canada) and Asia all industry export trend. (US$67 million) between the third quarters · Electrical equipment exports grew by of 2005 and 2006. The strongest export 22 percent to US$143 million, based on growth rates occurred for sales to the Middle growth in numerous markets such as Canada East (up 54 percent to US$78 million), to Af- (largest market), the United Kingdom (sec- rica (up 40 percent to US$33 million), and to ond largest market) and Ireland (ranked sev- Central and South America (up 26 percent to enth). Figure 3 US$149 million). (See Table 2 and Figure 4) Minnesota Quarterly Export Statistics is Most Major Markets Experience the most current resource available for track- Export Growth ing the state’s manufactured export trends · Canada posted the largest rise in ex- and is prepared for the Minnesota Trade Of- port value (US$122 million) between the third fice (MTO) by the Department of Employ- quarters of 2005 and 2006. Sales of transpor- ment and Economic Development’s (DEED) tation equipment (up US$45 million or 18 per- Analysis and Evaluation Office (Thu-Mai cent), fabricated metals (up US$23 million or Ho-Kim, 651-296-8285). Past issues may be 41 percent) and computer and electronics viewed at www.exportminnesota.com/ (up US$23 million or 26 percent) grew the itradestats.htm and results from manufac- most strongly. turing conditions surveys are located at · Thailand and Korea had the next two www.deed.state.mn.us/facts/ largest changes in export value. Exports to manufacturing.htm on DEED’s Web site. Thailand grew by US$35 million to US$125 Exports by state (and by North Ameri- million, based on strong increased demand can Industry Classification System indus- for computers and electronics (34 percent tries) are collected by the U.S. Department growth to US$99 million) while exports to of Commerce (USDOC) and distributed by Korea grew by US$32 million to US$150 mil- the World Institute of Social and Economic lion, based on increased sales of machinery Research (WISER). Other export data based (40 percent to US$53 million) and computers on the Harmonized Tariff System (Schedule and electronics (38 percent to US$36 mil- B) are collected by the USDOC and distrib- lion). uted by the Global Trade Information Ser- www.chinainsight.info trade FEBRUARY 2007 > PAGE 13

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tion, as a major step forward in establishing construct a regional electricity grid and a a comprehensive free trade pact between natural gas pipeline across South East Asia. ASEAN and China. ... ASEAN leaders and [BBC News Online (01/15)/Factiva] Prime Minister Wen Jiabao of China also re- "... The 16 leaders also found common Table 2 iterated a 2002 agreement pledging to resolve ground in an especially strong statement on the dispute over claims by China, the Philip- North Korea, saying the defiant regime pines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Tai- needed to address international concern wan to the Spratly Islands in the South China about food shortages and its past abduc- Sea. China and ASEAN began lowering bar- tions of Japanese and other nationals. They riers to trading in 2005. Since then, tariffs on also urged the World Trade Organization to more than 7,000 products from China and get global trade talks back on track and ASEAN have been lowered, Wen said. Two- agreed to consider ways of coordinating re- way trade volume last year amounted to gional efforts to contain bird flu and man- more than US$160 billion, up 23 percent from age relief for natural disasters. ..." [Agence 2005. ..." [The International Herald Tribune France Presse (01/15)/Factiva] (01/15)/Factiva] "The head of the Asian Development "... Southeast Asian companies should Bank urged East Asian countries on [Jan. get greater access to rapidly growing Chi- 15] to create a regional free trade bloc and to nese sectors - such as banking, information increase financial cooperation to reduce the technology, real estate, health, engineering, risk of crises. Haruhiko Kuroda told leaders education, transport and construction - from the ASEAN as well as the heads of thanks to the new agreement. It may also China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia help cut ASEAN members' huge trade defi- and New Zealand that they needed to coop- cits with China, allaying fears that expand- erate to pull 750 million of their citizens out ing economic ties with Beijing is of dire poverty. ... Japan proposed such a disadvantageous for smaller economies. ... bloc last year, but it has yet to find traction ASEAN deal with ASEAN business leaders said they were among the group, which accounts for about looking to the deal to help them gain entry a fifth of world trade and half the world's to sectors that are currently off-limits to for- population. Out of the three billion people China paves way eigners in China. ..." [The Financial Times in the region, an estimated 750 million live (UK, 01/15)/Factiva] on less than US$2 a day. ..." [Reuters (01/ "Leaders at [the summit also] signed an 15)/Factiva] for free-trade zone agreement to promote energy security and "ASEAN aims to have a landmark char- "Leaders in South-East Asia signed a that is feeding its relentless appetite for raw find alternatives to conventional fuels. ... The ter ready for signing at its next summit, as it ground-breaking agreement with China [Jan. materials. The agreements are among the Cebu Declaration on East Asian Energy Se- seeks to become a pivotal player in Asian 14] that liberalizes trade in services, five most recent achievements by Asia's answer curity, signed after a three-hour meeting on trade and diplomacy, Singapore Prime Min- years after a similar pact on goods. to the European Union, the ten-member As- [Jan. 15], lists a series of goals aimed at pro- ister Lee Hsien Loong said on [Jan.14]. In an The agreements will help countries such sociation of South-East Asian Nations viding 'reliable, adequate and affordable' interview with Reuters at the annual summit as Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore to tap (ASEAN). ..." [The Times (UK, 01/15)/ energy supplies to a huge region from Aus- of the ASEAN, he said the leaders' accep- China's growing economic might. The bal- Factiva] tralia to India. The document does not set tance of a blueprint for the charter was a ance of power has long been tilted in favor "... Conference delegates billed the trade any targets for capping greenhouse emis- major step for [the] group founded in 1967 of their larger neighbor, which has a and services deal, which emphasizes high- sions, but will call for extra investment in at the height of the Vietnam War. ..." [Reuters multibillion-pound trade deficit with a region technology services, energy and construc- eco-friendly fuels. There are also plans to (01/14)/Factiva] „ Source: World Bank PAGE 14 > FEBRUARY 2007 business www.chinainsight.info China's top ten China's vow to business news deepen financial stories of 2006 reform welcomed The following are the top ten business increased that of IT products, bio-techno- “China's pledge to deepen financial re- around 90 people on the ground in China, events in 2006 listed by the International logical medicines and high-tech products form, which was made at the third national expects to pour roughly [US]$250 million into Business Daily. from 13 percent to 17 percent. financial work conference that concluded the financial sector in the form of both loans 6. The European Union (EU) began anti- on [Jan. 20], has been welcomed by over- or direct equity investments, in its fiscal 1. The 100th Chinese Export Commodi- dumping investigations on Chinese shoe- seas financial institutions registered in the year ending June 30. Liu said the IFC hoped ties Fair (Canton Fair) opened on October makers. country. to buy stakes in at least one more rural co- 15, 2006. 7. The Ministry of Commerce set down ‘The conference, which was held at the operative bank and a microfinance institu- 2. The Ministry of Commerce conducted commercial tasks and goals for the 11th Five- end of the grace period for China's WTO tion by then. …” [Reuters (01/19)/Factiva] 13 key projects, including developing vil- Year Program (2006-10). By the end of 2010, accession, was of great significance for the Meanwhile, “IMF Managing Director lage and township markets, encouraging China will see a unified and open domestic nation to constitute an open, competitive Rodrigo Rato called Monday for China to enterprises to invest in Central China, Chi- market, a new foreign trade increase pattern financial regime,’ David Dollar, Director of be ‘more flexible’ in setting its exchange nese Brand Promotion, building a modern and a highly efficient governmental work the World Bank Office in Beijing, told rates, renewing a demand frequently made agricultural products circulation system, mechanism. Xinhua on [Jan. 21]. Tang Min, chief econo- by Western nations. ‘A more flexible ex- establishing silkworm breeding bases in 8. The value of yuan, the Chinese cur- mist with the Asia Development Bank Mis- change rate regime is in the interest of China,’ Central and West China and an energy sav- rency, rose 3.36 percent against the US dol- sion in China, said, ‘The strategies and Rato told reporters on a visit to Tokyo. The ing project. lar last year. principles set out at the conference will fur- [United States] and other major industrial- 3. The Chinese government made a great 9. Foreign trade volume totaled US$1.6 ther crystallize the future orientation of ized countries accuse China of keeping its effort to crack down on commercial bribery trillion during the first 11 months of 2006, an China's financial reform. … According to the yuan artificially low to make cheaper its manu- nationwide to promote fair competition. increase of 24.3 percent year on year, accord- two-day conference, China will continue to facturing exports which have flooded for- 4. China had been a WTO member for ing to China Customs. deepen reform of state-owned commercial eign markets. … ‘It is clear that China has five years as of October 11, 2006 and had 10. Chinese steelmakers joined in global banks and build a multi-layer, sustainable emerged like one of the big economic agents accomplished some remarkable achieve- iron ore price negotiations in 2006, taking rural financial system that covers most rural in the world. It is very welcome, because it ments. advantage of China's position as the largest areas and most rural residents. has changed the face of China in terms of 5. China adjusted the export drawback iron ore import country in the world. „ Efforts will be made to expand capital poverty reduction,’ he said. ‘Looking for- rates of some exported commodities start- and insurance markets, steadily push for- ward we see that it will be the interest of ing September 15, 2006. The nation reduced Source: PanAsianBiz ward market-oriented reform of interest rates China to rebalance its demand and private the drawback rate of 142 kinds of steel prod- http://www. panasianbiz.com/2007/01/ and seek more channels to use the nation's consumption,’ he said. ‘We believe also that ucts from 11 percent to eight percent, but chinas_top_ten_business_news_s.html huge foreign exchange reserve that totaled the market forces should play a bigger role over one billion U.S. dollars at the end of in the allocation of resources and that the last year. ‘All these measures will have posi- monetary policy should be allowed to be tive influence on the Chinese economy,’ said used more efficiently.’…” [Agence France Dollar. ‘It can be interpreted from the mea- Presse (01/22)/Factiva] sures that the Chinese government is en- In related news, Xinhua reports that “… Chinese investment couraging more non-state capital to flow into China is influencing other countries through the rural financial market and is actively pur- trade, investment and assistance, but also suing how to use the mammoth foreign ex- through knowledge and ideas, World Bank cools slightly in change reserve in a more efficient way,’ said Lead Economist Bert Hofman said, adding Dollar. ‘The decision to open the financial that people often ignore China's progress in market wider conforms with China's com- education and research. Heavy investment 2006 mitment to the WTO membership, which is in higher education means that 20 percent conducive to creating a fair, transparent en- of Chinese young people of university age Fixed asset investment increased by 24 16.9 percent year on year last year, which vironment of competition,’ he commented. now attend schools of higher learning, com- percent year-on-year last year, two percent- was slightly less than the 2005 level. Con- …” [Xinhua (China, 01/22) and Asia Pulse pared with only 6 percent a decade ago, age points less than a year earlier. sidering the huge amount of money already (Australia, 01/22)/Factiva] Hofman said. According to recently pub- Investment growth has slowed in recent in the market in 2005, however, the growth “The World Bank's private investment lished figures, China approved more than years as the authorities have introduced rate was still impressive, analysts said. arm hopes to put money into Chinese rural 30,000 patents in 2004, compared with less measures to keep the economy from coming Despite the slowdown in fixed asset in- cooperatives and microfinance outfits and than 5,000 prior to 1994. More than half of to a boil. vestment growth last year, the current level to offer support to a new postal bank as the patentees are Chinese citizens and an Urban fixed asset investment grew at a could still cause problems. part of a drive to boost financial services in increasing number of Chinese have obtained year-on-year pace of 24.5 percent, 2.7 per- Liu Wei, dean of Peking University's the countryside. Dong Liu, acting China patent rights in other countries, Hofman centage points less than a year earlier. The School of Economics, calculated that a fixed head of the International Finance Corp., said said. Hofman said China was likely to be- slowing trend was especially obvious last asset growth rate of 23 percent would be the IFC hoped to show other investors that come an important source of innovation and month, when the rate was 13.8 percent. appropriate for the Chinese economy. Any money can be made from China's poor, new products and it could expand its influ- Overall investment in fixed assets like more than that could squeeze out consump- underbanked rural areas, which are home to ence in this field by improving the protec- property and infrastructure grew by 29.8 tion and have an adverse effect on the about two-thirds of the country's 1.3 billion tion of intellectual property rights and percent in the first half of last year. The fig- economy. population. How to provide rural China with optimizing innovation systems. … China's ure was 25.7 percent in 2005 and 26.4 per- better banking services was a key issue at a increasing trade benefits other countries, cent in 2004. high-level meeting of financial policy strat- Hofman said, adding that Chinese manufac- Xie Fuzhan, director of the National Bu- egists chaired by Premier Wen Jiabao that turing is often highly efficient. …” [Xinhua reau of Statistics (NBS), attributed the slower began on [Jan. 19]. … The IFC, which has (China, 01/22)/Factiva] „ pace to the tightening measures the gov- Source: World Bank ernment had put in place to rein in areas like real estate investment, lending and market search, said the growth rate of fixed asset or 0.9 percentage points more than the pre- entry. investment would definitely be lower than vious year, according to the NBS. "The structure of investment has also last year. Still, in some big cities, investment improved," he said, adding that investment "It would be considered high if it hit 20 growth seems uncontrollable despite the in some industries suffering from over-ca- percent," Song said. tightening measures. pacity had also slowed. Wang Jian, secretary-general of the Chi- In Beijing, for example, investment in However, the large amount of excess li- The central economic work conference nese Academy of Macroeconomy, told a re- property development accounted for more quidity in the economy has also put pres- last December called for balanced growth in cent economic forum that the figure in the than half of all investment, according to a sure on investment growth. Xie said it investment and consumption. second half of this year could even be as municipal government spokesperson. remains a serious problem for Chinese The downward trend of late 2006 is ex- low as 15 percent. Although the central government has economy. pected to continue into this year, at least in Investment in property development, a taken a series of policies to stabilize house China's broad measure of the money the first quarter, economists predicted. major engine of the country's economic prices, property prices still increased by 5.5 supply, or M2, which reflects the overall state Song Guoqing, an economist with Peking growth, increased by 21.8 percent last year, percent in 70 major cities last year. of money supply in the country, grew by University's China Center for Economic Re- „ Source: China Daily www.chinainsight.info business FEBRUARY 2007 > PAGE 15 China may achieve IMF chief calls for industrial economy public spending to by 2015 help boost China's A report by China's top scientific insti- Since China started economic reform and tutions says that China is likely to be trans- opening-up, it has maintained an average formed from an agricultural into an industrial annual growth rate of 9.6 percent. consumption economy by 2015. The report lists ten indicators to evalu- The Chinese government needs to shift "In the near term, curbing rapid credit By then, its social and economic indica- ate the industrialization process. It said spending to health, education and welfare and investment growth continues to be criti- tors will reach the level of developed coun- China has achieved six of them, including to help boost consumption and refocus eco- cal to prevent overcapacity in certain sec- tries in 1960s, says China's Modernization life expectancy, adult literacy and accessi- nomic growth, the head of the International tors, and to put growth on a more Report 2007. bility of higher education. Monetary Fund (IMF) said in Beijing on [Jan. sustainable footing. Improving the interme- The report details research and opinions But China still has to improve four other 26]. diation of China's large savings through fur- of experts and scholars in the Chinese Acad- indicators: GNP per capita; the added value IMF managing director Rodrigo de Rato ther strengthening and developing the emy of Science, the Ministry of Science and of the service industry; the proportion of Figaredo said he strongly supported the financial system and capital markets is key." Technology and China's elite universities. the work force in agriculture; and the per- government's plans for a wide range of far- He welcomed the priority these factors The prediction was based on China's centage of urban residents among the total reaching social and economic reforms. were given in the outcome of the National economic growth from 1980 to 2004. population. „ Rato, who is in Beijing on his fourth visit Financial Work Conference, held last week Source: Xinhua to China as IMF head, said he agreed with to set out the country's financial reform, he the authorities that sustaining China's rapid said. pace of growth required refocusing the He said he had been impressed by economy away from its heavy dependence China's continued strong economic perfor- Spring Festival from Page 1 on investment and exports and towards con- mance. sumption. "China has transformed itself into a ma- He said it also meant that prosperity be jor economic powerhouse through rapid The Spring Festival ushers in shared more equally across society, which growth, job creation, and poverty reduc- required rural-urban income discrepancies tion," he said. Chinese New Year to be addressed, and environmentally sus- China registered a 10.7 percent economic lunar month of the next year. Of them, the both sides of the front door. Red paper-cut- tainable economic development. growth rate for 2006. most important days are Spring Festival Eve tings can be seen on window glass and He said fiscal policy had a central role in On the prospects for the global economy and the first three days. The Chinese gov- brightly colored New Year paintings with China's economic balancing. and the reform of the IMF, Rato said he and ernment now stipulates people have seven auspicious meanings may be put on the wall. "To increase consumption and reduce senior Chinese finance and central bank of- days off for the Chinese Lunar New Year. People attach great importance to Spring savings, China's households need to be re- ficials agreed the outlook was for continued Many customs accompany the Spring Festival Eve. At that time, all family mem- assured of adequate provision of health care, strong growth, with China making an impor- Festival. Some are still followed today, but bers eat dinner together. The meal is more education and pensions, with a shift in pub- tant contribution, and that risks to global others have weakened. luxurious than usual. Dishes such as lic expenditure to these areas." growth had moderated in recent months. On the 8th day of the 12th lunar month, chicken, fish and bean curd cannot be ex- Rato met with Premier Wen Jiabao [on "China's continued economic success many families make laba porridge, a delicious cluded, for in Chinese, their pronunciations, Jan.26], and held what he called "fruitful dis- and stability have become more important kind of porridge made with glutinous rice, respectively "ji", "yu" and "doufu," mean cussions" with Finance Minister Jin for other countries in the region and world- millet, seeds of Job's tears, jujube berries, auspiciousness, abundance and richness. Renqing and People's Bank of China Gover- wide," he said. lotus seeds, beans, longan and gingko. After the dinner, the whole family will sit nor Zhou Xiaochuan. "With the vision of its leadership and The 23rd day of the 12th lunar month is together, chatting and watching TV. In re- "Rebalancing such a large economy will their resolve to tackle the challenges that called Preliminary Eve. At this time, people cent years, the Spring Festival party broad- require a wide range of policy reforms, and China faces, I am confident that China will offer sacrifice to the kitchen god. Now how- cast on China Central Television Station China's policymakers are keenly aware of continue on its path to achieve greater eco- ever, most families make delicious food to (CCTV) is essential entertainment for the what needs to be done," he told reporters. nomic prosperity," said Rato. enjoy themselves. Chinese both at home and abroad. Accord- Source: Xinhua After Preliminary Eve, people begin pre- ing to custom, each family will stay up to paring for the coming New Year. This is called see the New Year in. "Seeing the New Year in". Waking up on New Year, everybody Store owners are busy as everybody dresses up. First they extend greetings to goes out to purchase necessities for the New their parents. Then each child will get money Profits in China's Year. Materials not only include edible oil, as a New Year gift, wrapped up in red paper. rice, flour, chicken, duck, fish and meat, but People in northern China will eat jiaozi, or also fruit, candies and different kinds of nuts. dumplings, for breakfast, as they think SOEs exceed one What's more, various decorations, new "jiaozi" in sound means "bidding farewell to clothes and shoes for the children as well as the old and ushering in the new". Also, the gifts for the elderly, friends and relatives, shape of the dumpling is like gold ingot from trillion yuan are all on the list of purchasing. ancient China. So people eat them and wish Total profits of China's state-owned en- In the auto industry the growth was 37.5 Before the New Year comes, the people for money and treasure. terprises (SOEs) reached 1.1 trillion yuan percent, in petrochemicals 15.6 percent, and completely clean the inside and outside of Southern Chinese eat niangao (New Year (137.5 billion U.S. dollars) last year, up 19.7 machinery 45 percent. their homes as well as their clothes, bed- cake made of glutinous rice flour) on this percent over 2005, according to the Minis- The 159 central SOEs under the central clothes and all their utensils. occasion, because as a homophone, niangao try of Finance. government made profits of 770 billion yuan Then people begin decorating their clean means "higher and higher, one year after SOEs reported 13.7 trillion yuan in sales in 2006, up 18.1 percent. rooms featuring an atmosphere of rejoicing another." The first five days after the Spring volume, a year-on-year increase of 19.5 per- The government has been pushing the and festivity. All the door panels will be Festival are a good time for relatives, friends, cent. restructuring and sale of SOEs over the last pasted with Spring Festival couplets, high- and classmates as well as colleagues to ex- SOEs involved in building materials re- three years. The number of central SOEs has lighting Chinese calligraphy with black char- change greetings, gifts and chat leisurely. ported 150.5 percent annual growth in prof- dropped from 196 to 159 and will be down to acters on red paper. The content varies from Burning fireworks was once the most its, while those in power reported 53 percent around 100 by 2010. „ homeowners' wishes for a bright future to typical custom on the Spring Festival. People and textiles 56.2 percent. Source: Xinhua good luck for the New Year. Also, pictures thought the spluttering sound could help of the god of doors and wealth will be posted drive away evil spirits. However, such an on front doors to ward off evil spirits and activity was completely or partially forbid- welcome peace and abundance. den in big cities once the government took which is the lunar year 4705. The Chinese The lively atmosphere not only fills ev- The Chinese character "fu" (meaning security, noise and pollution factors into Zodiac follows a twelve year lunar cycle. ery household, but permeates to streets and blessing or happiness) is a must. The char- consideration. As a replacement, some buy Each of the twelve years is represented by lanes. A series of activities such as lion danc- acter put on paper can be pasted normally tapes with firecracker sounds to listen to, an animal. The twelve animals of the Chi- ing, dragon lantern dancing, lantern festi- or upside down, for in Chinese the "reversed some break little balloons to get the sound nese Zodiac are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, vals and temple fairs will be held for days. fu" is homophonic with "fu comes", both too, while others buy firecracker handicrafts Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, The Spring Festival then comes to an end being pronounced as "fudaole." What's to hang in the living room. Rooster, Dog and Pig. This year is the year when the Lantern Festival is finished.„ more, two big red lanterns can be raised on The lunar New Year will be Feb. 18, 2007 of the Pig. Source: http://www.china.org.cn/english/ features/Festivals/78322.htm PAGE 16 > FEBRUARY 2007 chinese new year www.chinainsight.info

US–China Peoples Friendship Association Minnesota Chapter invites you to celebrate the

YEAR OF THE PIG

4705 CHINESE NEW YEAR 2007

SHAANXI FOLK ART THEME celebrating Minnesota-Shaanxi 25th Anniversary

Sunday, February 11, 2007 5:00 Gathering & Folk Art Exhibit 6:00 Banquet 7:00 Program

Ms. Gao Hong World-renowned Pipa Artist

James Swiderski, Board Member “Living and Working in Shaanxi”

U Garden Chinese Restaurant 2725 University Avenue S.E. Minneapolis 612-378-1255

$22 members, $25 non-members, $12 children under 12 Add $5 for reservations received after February 2 Sponsor table of 10 for $300

RSVP: Send guest names and check payable to USCPFA-MN C/o Wen Li, 10119 Portland Ave South, Bloomington 55420 For questions: [email protected] or 612-692-7068

SUN NIN FY LOC from the staff and contributors at CHINAInsight!

GUNG HAY FAT CHOY!