This change took place quickly and rapidly because of government policies regarding health and sanitary conditions, improved economic conditions, and changes of people's consumption concept and formation. The supermarkets in Shanghai are organized similarly to Canadian supermarkets, with important differences in products on the shelves. Most supermarkets also sell detergents, toothpaste, household, electrical and entertainment products. Shanghai has a varied climate with cold, damp winters and tropical, humid summer. Product sales and stocks respond accordingly.
Some supermarkets offer live seafood, an instore bakery and newspapers.
Microwaveable Chinese dishes are also increasing in popularity. There are several ways that Canadian products enter Shanghai's supermarkets. The following is a generalized structure. Import licenses are issued by the Foreign Economic Relations and Trade Commission of the local government. Products are imported directly from overseas.