A knockout for the knockoffs?

Another cherished Beijing institution is in danger of being eliminated. This time, it's a tradition enjoyed by Chinese and foreign visitors alike.

The Chaoyang district court has ordered managers of the famous Silk Street Market to "eradicate" sales of knockoff designer goods in its myriad stalls. If the court succeeds in enforcing this, shoppers will have to go elsewhere to buy their fake Fendi and cheap Chanel.

This will only inconvenience shoppers, who can easily find the coveted goods elsewhere. But it will be a disaster for the Silk Street Market. The lure of affordable imitations provides much of the market's irresistible drawing power. Many foreigners go to the market precisely to get these knockoff fripperies so they can flaunt them back home in front of those unfortunates who paid full price.