The Lesser Effects of Globalization

Globalization has been a tremendous boon to Chinese paper manufacturers.

SHANGHAI (AFP) - Surging demand for toilet paper in China has some of the nation's suppliers in a flush, state press said.

"I'm happy to see many young people adopt paper tissues for the convenience, which is a sign that reflects our social development and has helped improve our industry," Wang Yueqin, vice-director of Shanghai Paper Trade Association, said.

They are also experimenting with making toilet paper out of straw and sugar cane.

One textile merchant said he hoped the pressure would reinvigorate use of the handkerchief, at least for runny noses.

Which raises the question, "what did they use before?" Oh, never mind, I don't want to think about it.