Scott Tong

Correspondent

SHORT BIO

Scott Tong is a former correspondent for Marketplace. He reported on sustainability issues (energy, climate, environment, resources) for Marketplace, as well as the U.S.-China technology relationship, frequently described as “fraught.” He is Marketplace’s former China bureau chief.

What was your first job?

English-language audiotape (yes, tape) voice-over work. Sixth grade.Taiwan.

What advice do you wish someone had given you before you started this career?

Show up an hour before the interview.

Fill in the blank: Money can’t buy you happiness, but it can buy you ______.

Gas for kid carpools; Washington Capitals hockey tickets.

What is something that everyone should own, no matter how much it costs?

Smoker (plus wooden slotted spoon).

What’s your most memorable Marketplace moment?

Sneaking into Burma for twenty bucks.

Latest Stories (1,339)

More security for Chinese laborers

Dec 31, 2007
Cheap labor may become a rarer commodity in China, thanks to a new law requiring workers to have written contracts. Scott Tong looks at the new job security for laborers and what it will cost employers.

A tough year for "Made in China"

Dec 28, 2007
Stories of lead paint and other hazards in Chinese-made goods hit the headlines in 2007. Our Shanghai correspondent Scott Tong takes a looks back with host Amy Scott.

Where is Japan's ocean boundary?

Dec 27, 2007
The Japanese prime minister's visit to China will focus on improving the countries' relations, but the issue of the water boundary between the two countries might make things hairy. Scott Tong reports.

North Korea talks nuclear for aid

Dec 26, 2007
In talks between China and the two Koreas, North Korea is being offered economic aid if it discloses information on its nuclear program. Scott Tong reports the deal could fall apart if North Korea reneges.

Stories 'Made in China' in 2007

Dec 26, 2007
From tainted toys to cheap currency to enormous investment power, China had a wealth of economic stories this year. Shanghai correspondent Scott Tong puts things into perspective with host Renita Jablonski.

Our nanny's a day-trader

Dec 25, 2007
More than 100 million Chinese invest in the stock market, four times the number there were last year. And, as Scott Tong found out, some of them are closer to home than he expected.

Inflation worries are the talk of China

Dec 18, 2007
The cost of food is rising in China and that's got everyone a little nervous. Host Kai Ryssdal talks to our Shanghai Bureau Chief Scott Tong about the country's inflation and how the government is trying to control the runaway economy.

China's economy running a little too hot

Dec 11, 2007
While U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson is in Beijing for economic talks, China reported an inflation rate of 6.9% -- its highest in 11 years. Analysts say the country has too much cash on hand. Scott Tong reports.

China's manufacturers in a squeeze

Dec 10, 2007
Chinese manufacturers are struggling with the rising value of the Chinese yuan, which is making their low-end products more expensive for buyers around the world. And that could mean more iffy Chinese products for Americans. Scott Tong reports.

Paying a visit to the 'Jews of the East'

Dec 4, 2007
Many Chinese have a soft spot for Jews and their perceived success in business. That may be a horrible stereotype, but perceptions Americans find completely unacceptable exist and even thrive in China. Scott Tong and Bill Marcus report.