BEIJING: A county in Jiangxi province recently announced new rules to incentivize “zero and low bride prices”, sparking heated debate on social media.
While experts said the initiative holds significance in combating exorbitant marriage practices, concerns about feasibility and overlooking family differences persist.
The practice of “bride prices”, where the groom provides money or other gifts, such as gold or jewelry, to the bride and her family as a prerequisite for marriage, is widespread in China.
According to the new initiative, children of couples opting for zero or low bride prices in Chongyi county, Ganzhou, will be given priority in school enrollment in the county during preschool and compulsory education.
A low bride price is one that does not exceed 39,000 yuan ($5,400) in betrothal gifts or cash.
The new regulations have been given a one-year trial period.
Those taking advantage of them can also enjoy free entry to county-owned scenic spots, a complimentary health checkup within the first year, and free public bus rides within the county.
Chen Wenchao, assistant judge at Beijing’s Chaoyang District People’s Court, praised the move, seeing it as a refinement of the latest judicial interpretations and reflecting efforts to curb exorbitant bride prices and guide marriage customs.
A month ago, China’s top court, the Supreme People’s Court, clarified the scope of betrothal gifts, determined the circumstances in which they should be returned, and prohibited asking for money or other possessions in the name of gifts. –The Daily Mail-China Daily news exchange item
