Chinese Nationalists Target Domestic Brand Nongfu Spring, Stirring Economic Concerns

• China’s nationalists target domestic bottled water giant Nongfu Spring over perceived Japanese-style packaging, stoking concerns over impact on fragile private sector

• Backlash evokes prior waves against Western brands; adds to challenges for China’s private firms even as government vows support amid slowing economy

• Boycotts and attacks on Nongfu escalate despite denials, spread to criticism of founder Zhong Shanshan’s wealth and son’s American citizenship

• Business leader Zhou Dewen urges “staying sober”, warns economic recovery requires private sector action not “coerced” by public opinion

• Professor advises entrepreneurs keep low profile given “nationalism prevailing”, as personal details like nationality can be exploited