Upgrades that will cook the Japanese goose

Intelligent rice cookers made in China are expected to kick-start upgradation of the local manufacturing industry and end the dominance of, and Chinese consumers' fascination for, Japanese brands, experts said.

Xiaomi Corp launched a smartphone-controlled, 999-yuan ($155) induction heating or IH pressure cooker for rice under a new brand called Mijia in late March.

Last month, Guangdong-based Gree Electric Appliances Inc launched a new model of 1,199-yuan IH cooker.