China's 2022 growth seen as its lowest in 40 years

9 Oct 13:27 Key points summarised by AI

China's 2022 economic growth is projected to be around 2.7%, marking its weakest performance in four decades and significantly missing the 5.5% target.
The stringent 'zero-Covid' policy severely hampered manufacturing and consumption through strict lockdowns, causing widespread business disruptions and global supply chain issues.
Ongoing challenges in the property sector, exacerbated by government crackdowns on excessive borrowing, continue to exert significant downward pressure on the nation's economy.
Despite a recent surge in Covid cases following the abrupt loosening of restrictions in December, analysts anticipate an economic rebound in 2023, with growth expected to accelerate quarter-by-quarter.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

Today 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.