iPad Newsstand App Error Download

I recently started using the newsstand app, subscribing to magazines such as Maxim, GQ, and Wired. There's a problem for me now when I'm trying to download magazines from GQ and Wired. I keep getting an error during download, please try again later. I reinstalled the magazine apps, restored my iPad. Nothing worked until I turned on my VPN to a server location in the states (btw, I currently live in China). Is this the reason why I have this error, because I don't live in the states? I find it weird since I can still download my Maxim magazines without the use of a VPN.