[cruiserlan2000]

hi all,

my co-worker is going to china and malaysia this month. is the lens prices in asia competitive? is it cheaper to buy tamron or sigma lenses there? anyone from the forum that have bought lenses in asia? appreciate it.

thanks,
cruiserlae2000

[Slick]

Hi there,

For what it's worth I bought a Sigma 70-300 last weekend in Zhengzhou, China in the electronics market area for a little less than $200 so the prices there were higher. Then again, I walked all over that part of the city and only found one store that sold Pentax lenses. I also bought a K10D to replace a stolen K110D in Shanghai and paid maybe $200 more than I wanted. So again, prcies were higher. I've also had a hard time finding stores that carry Pentax lenses (or Sigma, Tamron) anywhere I've been in China so far. Nikon stores all over, Canon stores are frequent, even saw quite a few stores selling the Sony Alpha but Pentax is hard to find.

When I leave China I plan on going to HK and pick up some lenses there. It's supposed to be much cheaper from what I'v heard.

Hope that helps.

Slick

[Mallee Boy]

Hi Cruiser,
I have not purchased Pentax in either China or Malaysia, but have purchased in Hong Kong.
The best advice I can give you for Hong Kong is DO YOUR HOMEWORK. Know your values and products and do not compromise. So I imagine the same would apply for where you are going. Only accept products in manufacturers boxes...not plastic shrink wrap.
Be prepared to wear out a pair of shoes walking, as believe me mate, walk you will.
Have fun doing it...and the food is great!
Cheers
Grant