Actress Addresses Costly Bride Prices at Two Sessions

In a media interview, Zhang Kaili, a renowned actress and a member of the CPPCC National Committee, acknowledged that high bride prices are widespread, but pushed back against blaming women. "The reasons it persists are complex," she said. "I don't think it's women's fault, and we must not shift the blame onto them."　

Zhang noted that some CPPCC members have proposed setting limits on bride prices and expressed hope that clearer regulations could be introduced to curb excessive demands.　

She also urged the public to look beyond stereotypes that portray women as materialistic, arguing that various reasons behind the issue should be addressed, such as economic gap among different regions. Zhang has repeatedly called on women not to fall into victims of entrenched social expectations.　

Her remarks highlight a deeper reality. In some regions, betrothal gifts have turned marriage into a financial transaction, with costs often far exceeding what families can afford.　

According to the China Population and Development Research Center, the average bride price in rural areas has reached 128,000 yuan (US$18,300), about 4.2 times the per capita disposable income of rural residents.　

Online reactions have been divided. Supporters praised Zhang for addressing structural issues and showing empathy toward women.　

Critics argued that she stopped short of rejecting the practice altogether. They contend that bride prices, regardless of amount, undermine the idea of marriage as a union of equals and should be abolished entirely.