Chinese story in Mexico

Some months ago the so called "chinogate" (1) started, it got my attention, firstly because of the big political impact in our society if true. So I've followed the case throught the media.

Then it was how the issue was treated within the media, the street, blogs, etc. And just today while talking to a friend, I told him how xenophobic this case has been treated to me. And so I began thinking about the meaning of "Chinese" in Mexico, in our culture, in our language.

Some days ago, President Calderon said about this whole issue was like a "chinese-story": Mexican way to say that a story is not believable, not true. There's also to "earn it at the chinese way" which means earn or recover a debt kind of advantageous with no moral. Also we say "you're talking to me in Chinese", this is like "I just don't get a word of what you're saying", total lack of understanding. If in a store we see a bad/poor quality product we just say "it's chinese".

Then reality; the ecomic grow of China, the fake products, disrespect of copyrights, etc. And so, I realise that maybe is not that this particular case have been treated in a xenophobic way, it's like a cultural issue, the Spanish language and the way popular sayings are deep on us. Or maybe Mexicans never loved at all Chinese people.

As for me, I will continue studying Mandarin as soon as I'll return from my vacations, because Chinese language and culture are so exciting to learn.

(1) Chinese-born Mexican bussinessman accused of drug traffiking. More in NYT