Rising prices force lovebirds to change tune

SHANGHAI - Lovebirds in this eastern metropolis are celebrating the love season again but, like everything else, the game of romance has been hit by rising prices.

Red roses, which are usually sold for 5 yuan each (76 cents), doubled in price in the leadup to Valentine's Day on Monday. The rising wholesale price and higher transport costs increased the price by 30 percent in most flower stores in Shanghai, local media have reported.

However customers have been wise in selecting their romantic gifts.