By Trevor Nichols (China Daily)
Updated: 2008-05-12 08:57

 
　　Bargaining with local dealers can be a memorable experience.

Shopping can be another baffling experience. But in China's big cities, newcomers can find whatever they're looking for, according to Irma Bollhalder, a volunteer for Make it Easy in Beijing, a group that meets regularly in the capital to share their experiences.

"First of all, it is important to be friendly, be sure to establish good relationships with the shopkeepers," she says.

"Also don't be overly concerned about the nickels and dimes.

"Shop for the best price but expect that every once and a while you will get ripped off, have a good attitude about it."

Chinese antiques are prize possessions for many expats, who decorate their homes with lovely Middle Kingdom curiosities.

However buying these "must-have" artifacts can cause problems for many first time buyers because most don't realize they need to get a "fake relic certification" from the shopkeeper.

According to Chinese law, a relic certificate is required to export anything pre-1949. There are some pre-1795 items which are not exportable at all.

Age, however, is not the only determining factor. To get a relic certificate, a buyer first needs to have an official relic inspection, which costs 20-30 yuan and then the certificate, which costs 200-300 yuan.

"Be sure to ask the shopkeeper," suggests Bollhalder, who has lived in Beijing for five years.

"Not having a relic certificate is a huge risk. Customs can seize and search a whole shipment if a relic certificate is not in order.

"They aren't professional re-packers so this can get particularly messy."

To receive a relic's inspection, call 6401-4608 or visit the Bureau at Jianguomen.　　

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