Widespread Fine-Based Economy in China Leads to Massive Public Boycotts Across the Country

Continuous economic slump and tight finances in China have led to salary cuts and unpaid wages for grassroots public servants, with local governments increasing revenue through fines. This approach, seen as a form of wealth seizure, is sparking public resentment and resistance. Some netizens also believe that this will continue until the end of Xi Jinping’s term. Recently, local governments have imposed bizarre fines. For instance, a baozi shop in Beijing was fined for selling tofu pudding outside its business scope, leading to the seizure of alleged illegal earnings and a substantial fine. In Zhumadian, Henan, an elderly vendor was fined a hefty sum of 55000 yuan for selling chrysanthemum greens. She had only earned 12 yuan for the sale. #chinaobserver All rights reserved.