Ban on banquets spices up discussion

A near-complete ban on banquets in Kaili, Guizhou province, has drawn mixed reactions, with restaurant owners worried about a decrease in business.

The pilot regulation, made public by the city government on Monday, said banquets are now allowed only for first marriages and funerals. The rule applies not only to city officials and civil servants, but also residents, including expats.

Wen Rengang, a spokesman for the city government, said the regulation is aimed at preventing the use of banquets as an opportunity to rake in money, as well as curbing extravagance and promoting frugality.