Shenzhen Shopping: HK Influencer Finds Groceries for Just $11 & Sparks Debate
A Hong Kong-based travel enthusiast,項明生 (James Hong), documented a recent shopping trip to Shenzhen, China, reporting he was able to purchase groceries and breakfast for just 10 yuan (approximately HK$11). The remarkably low prices at a Shenzhen street market prompted him to comment, “No wonder people are going to the Lian Tang/Heung Yuen border crossing every day to buy groceries for 2 yuan.” His observations, shared on Facebook on November 1st, have sparked considerable online discussion.
Shenzhen Market Trip Reveals Price Discrepancies
項明生 stated he “went to investigate the prices at the street markets in Shenzhen.” He shared his experience via a video posted to his social media account, highlighting the affordability of everyday goods. He noted that 10 yuan could cover both breakfast and vegetables.
Significant Price Differences
The video, titled “¥10 Shenzhen Street Market,” was filmed at a street market in the Cheng中村 (Chencun) village of the Shunfeng area. He observed tomatoes selling for ¥2.98 per jin (approximately 500 grams) and lettuce for ¥0.98 per jin.
He was particularly struck by the price of scallions, stating he purchased a large bunch for just ¥1.58 – “only a few yuan.” He also noted that萵筍 (lettuce) was available for ¥1 per piece, compared to 10 yuan for two in Hong Kong. A carton of 30 eggs cost ¥15.8, roughly equivalent to the price in Hong Kong (approximately HK$20).
Affordable Breakfast Options
Breakfast items, such as freshly ground soybean milk and fried dough sticks, were also inexpensive, costing ¥2.5 each. This low cost of living led him to exclaim, “Wow! It’s really cheap, the prices in Shenzhen are so low you’ll doubt your life!”
項明生’s total spending for breakfast and groceries was less than 10 yuan, demonstrating the value of cross-border shopping.
Online Debate: Impact of Low Prices
The post generated a significant response online, with many commenters praising 項明生’s thoroughness. One commenter stated, “You even go to the market to compare prices, amazing!” 項明生 responded, calling it “a little joy in life.”
The discussion also touched on the topic of “Northbound Consumption,” with some commenters criticizing those taking advantage of the lower prices. One commenter argued that those using the ¥2 fare should be charged full price, labeling them “harmful to Hong Kong’s economy.” 項明生 countered that people naturally seek out affordable options, and attempting to persuade them to spend more on expensive goods is unlikely to succeed.
Concerns and Clarifications
Some commenters pointed out that affordable groceries are also available in Hong Kong markets, with one sharing a photo of菜心 (cai xin) selling for HK$1 per jin. 項明生 inquired about the location of this market.
The discussion also addressed concerns about food safety, with one commenter referencing a past news story about “toxic sweet potatoes” in mainland China. 項明生 responded that sweet potatoes sold in Hong Kong markets also originate from the mainland, with the exception of those sourced from Japanese supermarkets.
Commenters also noted the difference in weight measurements, with a “jin” in Shenzhen being 500 grams, compared to approximately 600 grams in Hong Kong. They reminded travelers of restrictions on bringing fresh eggs back into Hong Kong.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did 項明生 spend in Shenzhen?
項明生 purchased breakfast and a bag of groceries for less than 10 yuan (approximately HK$11).
What was the price of eggs in Shenzhen?
A carton of 30 eggs cost ¥15.8 in Shenzhen, which is roughly equivalent to the price in Hong Kong (approximately HK$20).
What did commenters say about people traveling to Shenzhen for cheaper goods?
Some commenters criticized those taking advantage of lower prices, arguing they were harming Hong Kong’s economy, while 項明生 countered that seeking affordable options is natural behavior.
As cross-border travel continues, more residents may seek out affordable goods in Shenzhen, potentially impacting Hong Kong’s retail sector. This proves also likely that discussions surrounding price differences and economic implications will continue.