It has come to my attention that New visa issues and Extension of stay Visas are going to become far more difficult to obtain. Some reports stating that renewals will only be issued in ones home country and no more than 30 days at a time.
I am not sure of the validity of such claims but articles are now appearing on the net.
http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/04/23/news/23expats.php This one titled 'New rules for ex-pats in China'.

If anyone is applying for a New visa or a Visa extension in the next few months it would be good of you to share your experiences for the benefit of the group.