The iPad 2 has been a big hit in the Asian markets. It was officially launched in China yesterday and was sold out in less than four hours, according to M.I.C. Gadgets. The Beijing Apple Store saw hundreds of customers and scalpers plus plenty of security personnel on hand to ensure no line cutting and no fights between customers and scalpers.
Scalpers outside were spotted with stacks of iPad 2s, and they generally sold them for a markup of 200-400 yuan ($30-60). Considering that the tablets sold out in less than four hours, the scalpers must have done well. The iPad 2 had sold out in less than a week in countries like South Korea, Singapore, and Hong. The supply shortage is now believed to involve the LG supplied displays.