Souvenirs are being turned out for the city's growing "red tourism" market, including crystal replicas of the building housing the first Chinese Communist Party congress and statues of Deng Xiaoping.

Mementos also include tea sets, key chains, cell phone straps and bookmarks with the picture of Soong Ching Ling, wife of Dr Sun Yat-sen.

Red tourism - trips to remind citizens of China's revolutionary past - has become a growing industry. And souvenirs add luster.

China has promoted "red tourism" this year to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Long March, in order to arouse young people's patriotism.

New products are the winning designs of the Shanghai "red tourism" design competition.

New souvenirs will be available by February at boutique shops in historic sites across the city.

"Red tourism" now covers 60 historic sites in the city.

While the "red tourism" market is flourishing, souvenirs are still lacking in variety and numbers.

But in the next two months, 29 winning designs will be produced and put on sale.

"The concept of 'red tourism' has just started this year, and we still have a lot of catching up to do," said Yao Shuoye, spokesperson for the city's Tourism Administrative Commission. "The souvenirs will add extra attractions."

Prices will vary, according to Shi Lihua, general manager of Shanghai Lao Feng Xiang, the major souvenir manufacturer.

"We are targeting a medium price range for the visitors," said Shi. "And we will also have some more expensive ones for collectors."

The selling will extend beyond the 60 historic sites, according to Shi. "They will be more than just souvenirs; they can also be educational tools for the young."

(Shanghai Daily December 2, 2005)