Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by small business owners in China, particularly in Shenzhen, regarding rental agreements and the protection of tenant rights, contrasting it with the more favorable conditions for small businesses in Japan, particularly in Tokyo's Ginza district [3][4][10]. Group 1: Rental Challenges in China - A small noodle shop in Shenzhen faces a 10% rent increase and a non-refundable "tea fee" of 100,000 yuan after three years, highlighting the exploitative practices of landlords [3]. - The article emphasizes the lack of tenant protection in China, where landlords can easily evict tenants and demand unreasonable fees [3][4]. Group 2: Rental Conditions in Japan - In Tokyo's Ginza, rental prices for prime locations reach historical highs, with monthly rents ranging from 3485 to 5855 yuan per square meter [4]. - Japanese rental contracts are detailed and provide clear responsibilities for both landlords and tenants, reducing disputes [8][9]. - Landlords in Japan cannot arbitrarily increase rent or evict tenants without just cause, ensuring a stable environment for small businesses [9][10]. Group 3: Legal Protections for Tenants in Japan - The Japanese "Land Lease and House Lease Law" mandates that landlords must have a legitimate reason to terminate a lease, providing strong protections for tenants [10]. - Compensation for early termination of leases can range from six months to five years of rent, depending on the type of business, which further secures tenant interests [10]. - Tax incentives exist for the inheritance of small businesses, reducing the financial burden on successors and promoting the longevity of these establishments [10]. Group 4: Examples of Successful Small Businesses in Japan - The Tsukiji Market in Tokyo serves as an example of a thriving small business environment, where many establishments have operated for decades without the threat of eviction [11][13]. - A small beef rice shop near Tsukiji has been in operation for over 75 years, demonstrating the stability and resilience of small businesses in Japan [13].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the proposal by Yao Jinbo, Chairman and CEO of 58.com, to protect tenants' rights by capping annual rent increases at 5% and enhancing monitoring of rental prices by intermediaries [1][4]. Group 1: Rental Market Trends - The rental market in China is rapidly developing, with the rental population expected to reach 240 million in 2024 and nearly 300 million by 2025 [3]. - In 2024, major cities are experiencing a decline in residential rental prices due to factors such as the large-scale entry of affordable rental housing and weak income expectations [4]. - From January to November, the average residential rent in 50 cities fell by 2.72%, with first-tier, second-tier, and third/fourth-tier cities seeing declines of 2.29%, 3.01%, and 2.38% respectively [4]. Group 2: Issues in the Rental Market - The rental market faces issues such as malicious eviction, arbitrary price increases, and even utilities being cut off to drive out tenants [4]. - Yao Jinbo suggests enhancing legal awareness among tenants and landlords, providing legal assistance, and establishing a deposit escrow system managed by third parties to ensure fair deposit returns [4]. Group 3: Demographics and Housing Challenges - A significant portion of new urban residents and young people, approximately 70%, are renting in major cities, highlighting the housing difficulties faced by these demographics [5]. - The challenges stem from their relatively short work history and lower income, making it difficult to afford housing in desirable locations [5][6].