Articles in this Cluster
20-06-2025
China's 618 shopping festival saw a 15.2% surge in gross merchandise value to an estimated 855.6 billion yuan ($119 billion), suggesting a pickup in consumption. Sales were boosted by government trade-in subsidies for consumer electronics and strong demand for beauty and pet care products. Alibaba's Taobao and Tmall reported strong sales in categories eligible for subsidies, while JD.com saw a record number of shoppers and over 2.2 billion orders. However, sales slowed towards the end of the festival as some provincial governments ran out of funds for subsidies. Experts warn that prolonged shopping festivals may reduce consumption incentives and that more innovative measures are needed to boost domestic consumption.
20-06-2025
Japan's core inflation rate rose to 3.7% in May, the highest level since January 2023, driven by a 101.7% year-over-year increase in rice prices, the largest jump in over half a century. Headline inflation was 3.5%, marking the 38th consecutive month above the Bank of Japan's 2% target. The "core-core" inflation rate, which excludes fresh food and energy prices, increased to 3.3% from 3% in April. Experts note that rice prices significantly impact inflation, and the government's measures to reduce rice prices could boost household spending. The Bank of Japan maintained interest rates at 0.5% and is expected to raise rates once it is more confident that underlying inflation will approach 2%.
20-06-2025
China is attempting to strengthen its ties with Africa amidst the global trade war, particularly as the US imposes tariffs on African goods while China offers zero duties, thus gaining an advantage and increasing its influence on the continent as seen in places like Uganda where Chinese malls are becoming increasingly popular among the local middle class.
20-06-2025
Chinese companies are expanding into Brazil due to intense domestic competition and escalating trade tensions with the US and Europe. Brazil, with a population of over 200 million, is a coveted market for Chinese e-commerce and delivery companies. Meituan, China's largest food delivery company, plans to invest $1 billion in Brazil, while Mixue, a Chinese tea and dessert company, will hire thousands there. Other Chinese companies, such as Temu and Shein, have already made inroads in Brazil. The expansion is driven by China's stagnant consumer economy and increased regulatory scrutiny in other major markets. However, Chinese companies may face scrutiny from Brazilian regulators and challenges in attracting customers and hiring local workers.
