The problem is that in Asia there are many countries that are much more user-friendly than China. Thailand is one that comes to mind. Why should foreigners stay in China and face racism and hostility on a daily basis, when they can feel welcome in other countries?

I am not saying there is no hope for China, just that the Chinese are making life needlessly difficult for many foreigners, especially with the stupid visa restrictions/regulations and the over the top xenophobic nationalism that is becoming endemic in China. Also, work visas should be valid anywhere in China, not just in one city or region, and foreigners should be able to transfer to different universities more easily.

The letter or release/reccomendation note thing is a lot of rubbish!