Chinese nationalists have a history of criticizing foreign brands for perceived insults to Chinese culture. However, they have recently turned their attention to Chinese brands, such as Nongfu, a bottler of spring water. The nationalists have accused Nongfu of incorporating pro-Japanese symbolism in its new beverage packaging, including typography resembling the Yasukuni shrine in Tokyo and a mountain logo resembling Mount Fuji. These accusations have sparked controversy and drawn attention to the company’s founder, Zhong Shanshan, who is China’s richest man. The online campaign against Nongfu highlights the power of social media and the influence of nationalist sentiment in China.
For more information, you can visit The Economist
Published on 2024-03-14 10:11:51