Quotable

Local vendors are focusing on premium flagship smartphones that are priced above 2,000 yuan ($300; 270 euros); for instance, Huawei's P9 and Oppo's R9. The rising middle class in China welcomes local brands that offer good quality at a lower price point."

Jessie Ding, a Canalys researcher based in Shanghai. Apple Inc announced a steep decline in revenue from China in its third fiscal quarter of 2016, as iPhone sales dropped due to fierce competition from local rivals.

"China only has one diesel-powered icebreaker - the Ukraine-built Xuelong - but its icebreaking capacity is still insufficient in certain polar areas in extreme weather conditions."

Zhang Luqing, nuclear expert with the science and technology commission of China National Nuclear Corp, which with China State Shipbuilding Corp has signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement to accelerate the pace of developing nuclear-powered icebreakers and maritime nuclear power platforms.

"Chinese consumers are getting used to the pattern of afternoon tea with cake and dessert. ... And customers who favor foreign tea are increasingly younger and better educated."

Ann Chiang, owner of the Annvita English Tea Co. In recent years, the British tradition of afternoon tea has become popular in China, with more consumers indulging in the experience.

(China Daily European Weekly 07/29/2016 page24)