Review mobile and broadband plans yearly and challenge unjustified obstacles
An old plan may cost a few dozen renminbi monthly more than current alternatives, adding up to hundreds yearly. China's number-portability rules prohibit unjustified refusal or delay and special tariff plans targeting porting users. Complain when a carrier improperly blocks the process.
What it takes
Free. Spend ten or so minutes reviewing bills; persistence with customer service may be needed.
What you may gain
Ministry rules prohibit unjustified refusal, obstruction or delay of number portability, technical interference with ported users' service quality, and special tariff or marketing plans for porting users. Legacy plans can cost tens of renminbi more monthly, so inertia can waste hundreds yearly.
Context & considerations
Review six months of actual data and call usage in the carrier's app, then choose accordingly. If staff insist on an in-person downgrade or say a contract prevents changes, request the written basis. The source recommends China's 12300 complaint line if none is provided.
Research & references
Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China (2019). Provisions on Number Portability Services, document No. 242. http://www.gov.cn/zhengce/zhengceku/2019-11/13/content_5451483.htm