Setting off firecrackers is a must during China’s lunar New Year, but there is something new this year.

    A touch screen has been introduced into the firecracker wholesale market in Qingdao, allowing consumers to watch on creen the effects of the firecrackers they intend to buy.

    There is a wider variety of firecrackers made for children including some made in the shape of favorite cartoon characters.

    There are also firecrackers featuring Haibao, or Jewel of the Sea and the mascot for the Shanghai World Expo 2010.

    (Jane Lai)