Shanghai Disneyland responds to pricey food claims

SHANGHAI - Shanghai Disneyland has fired back at claims that food offered in the park is too expensive.

Various media outlets reported this week that consumers have complained about costly food after visiting Disney's first theme park on the Chinese mainland during a test run earlier this month.

A report by web portal Sina.com said that almost all meals in the park sold for at least 70 yuan ($10.7) each, and that the park is charging 6 yuan for a single steamed bun.

Sources with the resort told Xinhua that the prices were based on extensive market surveys and analysis conducted among Chinese consumers, industry experts and local regulators.

"When setting the prices, we have drawn experience from others in the industry," said a spokesperson. "We also took into consideration the specific demand of the Chinese market."

Park managers will "listen to visitors' feedback," the spokesperson added.

Tickets for Shanghai Disneyland went on sale to the public on March 28.

The Shanghai Disney Resort is Disney's sixth resort destination worldwide. Construction began in 2011 in Pudong New District.

Shanghai Shendi Group, Disney's Chinese partner, has forecast that the resort will attract 10 million visits each year.