Beijing has postponed a public hearing planned for Thursday to decide the fate of Xiushui Market, the most famous outdoor garments marketplace in the city haunted by foreigners.

Built in 1984 next to the area of foreign embassies to China, the market is actually a commercial street that receives 20,000 to 30,000 visitors a day and generates an annual turnover exceeding 100 million yuan or US$12 million.

It has become one of the three best-known destinations for foreign tourists to Beijing. The other two are the Great Wall and the Imperial Palace.

The local government is considering removing the market, owing to factors such as hidden dangers to fire prevention and road safety. But it wins only criticism and opposition from the general public, especially shop owners at the market.

To seek a final solution, the government has decided that two separate gatherings be held on Thursday and Friday to solicit opinions from representatives of shop owners and the general public, respectively.

But the local official didn't reveal how long the hearing would be delayed, adding that the hearing would be held when all the preparations are ready.

(CRI July 15, 2004)