Increasingly though there are more younger Chinese people keen on veganism because of environmental or health reasons, or growing worries about food-related crises. It's a nascent cultural development though so whether it'll take root over a longer term is hard to tell for now. #6

Having said that, there has always been a vegetarian and vegan tradition in Buddhism and Taoism—but commonfolk would opt to be vegetarian only on the 1st and 15th day of the lunar month or on religious festivals as 'penance' and 'respect', and they see that as adequate (rather than do it daily). #5

In tandem with that, China also saw a reduction in malnutrition during the same period, so there's the conflation of meat consumption with good health. #4

China's economy has seen a transition from being a closed state-planned one to opening up to free market reforms and trade with Deng Xiaoping in 1979. With that came a growing middle class, and consequently, a strong desire to show social status and wealth by consuming more and more meat. #3

Part of it is to do with how historically, meat consumption is something only the affluent could afford. There's even a Chinese phrase "大鱼大肉" ("big fish big meat") which is used to describe huge feasts during important events and festivities. #2

Lovely conversation! And as always, it's illuminating to listen to Peter Singer. He commented on how it was hard to understand why Chinese people think it's so difficult to be vegetarian or vegan in China. As someone of Chinese heritage (who's vegan), maybe I can weigh in to share my views. #1