Half the Home Buyers in GZ Affected by New Measures
Surveys have indicated that more than half of the home buyers in Guangzhou have been affected by the new mortgage policy, introduced by the central government. The new measure has increased mortgage loan down-payments for those buying a second home or more, in order to curb speculation in the real estate market. Spokesman for the Guangzhou Land Resources and Housing Management Bureau, Huang Wenbo, said that the government will not cut its land supply plan, even if the cost of housing falls dramatically.

World Book and Copyright Day: E-books vs Paper-books
Today (April 23) marks World Book and Copyright Day, established by UNESCO to promote reading, publishing and the protection of intellectual property through copyright.  The development of technology has changed many people's reading habits, with the Internet, mobile phones and MP3 players becoming increasingly popular reading tools. One reader said:
"Reading on the Internet is more convenient, and more books are available. "

Another reader prefers reading on their cell phone:
"We are often on the bus and it's not possible to carry a book with us all the time. So cell phones make it easier for us. "
E-books are attracting many readers, so does that mean paper books are out of date?
" I won't give up reading real books. A paper book is great to keep and it feels better to read. "

Expo Showcasing Made-in-Taiwan Products Taking Place in Dongguan
Over 400 exhibitors from Taiwan are attending a 4-day expo in Dongguan to display brand-name made-in-Taiwan products. Taiwan companies used to mainly focus on international trade. Due to the financial crisis, Taiwan enterprises are seeking opportunities in the mainland market. Wu Jianyan, a director of an environmental-friendly construction material company told us:
" We appreciate this opportunity provided by the government, enabling us to introduce our advanced, low-carbon-concept products to the mainland market. We hope it's a good chance to shift focus from overseas to the mainland. "

Turandot to Announce Official Opening of Guangzhou Opera House Next Month
The Guangzhou Opera House will officially open to the public on May 6th, with Puccini's classic opera Turandot, directed by China's Chen Kaige. Rehearsals are well underway ahead of the big night.