Beijing street to be duty-free haven (3)

Stall and shop owners said business at Yabao Market has been sluggish since the beginning of the year, and they blamed the strengthening of the yuan against foreign currencies.

"It is increasingly difficult to do business right now, and foreign travelers have been less willing to spend as their currency devalues against the yuan." said Fang Yingqiao, a Chinese tea dealer.

"Previously, they were generous with their spending. Now they are increasingly shrewd in their bargaining," she added.

Qiao Yongfang, who runs a wholesale business selling tablecloths at the market, said she hoped the new duty-free zone would bring more expatriate shoppers.

"The duty-free mall could have more impact on retail shops. I only hope more wholesalers will be included," she added.

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