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Leading economists at odds over plans to turn around Chinese rust belt’s fortunes

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A proposal by a prominent Chinese economist to revive the “rust belt” province of Jilin has triggered controversy among academics, showing the difficulty of finding a quick solution to the problems of the northeast zone as it grapples with debt and inefficient plants.

Justin Lin Yifu, who has worked for the World Bank as its chief economist and a senior vice-president between 2008 to 2012, proposed that Jilin, on the border with North Korea, should encourage light and textile industries to move from the country’s coastal areas, where labour costs are higher, while expanding heavy industry and manufacturing.

According to a 300,000-word policy proposal published by a team headed by Lin, Jilin – which is lagging behind China’s affluent coastal areas in terms of per capita GDP – should open its arms to manufacturers relocating from China’s more expensive areas.

It said that by doing so Jilin could increase local incomes and improve its economic performance.

The proposal by Lin, who studies how less developed areas can catch up with wealthier ones and is a teacher at Peking University, has been greeted with scepticism from other analysts.

Sun Jianbo, a former chief strategist from China Galaxy Securities, said the idea went “against common sense”.

Sun argued in an article published onlinethat Lin’s recommended approach would not work because the northeastern provinces of Jilin, Heilongjiang and Lioning, did not have the basic economic conditions to support manufacturing.

China says economy unaffected by environmental inspections

“Considering how many icy and snowy days a year shut down production, who knows how much higher the cost could be [in the rust belt] than south eastern coastal areas,” Sun said.

But Fu Caihui, a researcher from Lin’s team at the Centre for New Structural Economics, an institute in Peking University, said Sun’s argument was wrong because products in question were made inside factories not in the freezing open air.

“Those who still believe that the northeast should stick to developing the heavy industry and coastal areas should hold on to the light…

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International Aquarium Conference Shifts from Mexico to China: A Global Focus

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Wuhan’s HHAn Polar Ocean Park successfully received the IAC flag, marking the 2027 event countdown. The city aims to promote aquatic research and biodiversity conservation through an upcoming science education museum.


Success of the Flag Handover Ceremony

The International Aquarium Congress (IAC) celebrated a significant milestone on November 1, 2024, in Guadalajara, Mexico, with the flag handover ceremony for the upcoming 13th IAC in 2027. This event, often dubbed the "Olympics of the Aquarium Industry," marks the return of the IAC to China for the first time since 2008. HHAn-Wuhan Polar Ocean Park received the flag, highlighting Wuhan’s prominence in aquatic research and conservation.

Wuhan: A Hub for Aquatic Research

Wuhan stands out as a leading center for aquatic organism research, housing the largest cluster of related institutions in China and globally. Its selection as the first inland city to host the IAC emphasizes its rich scientific heritage and commitment to environmental sustainability. The city’s advanced research capabilities and dedication to biodiversity make it an ideal venue for such a prestigious event.

Commitment to Environmental Education

Tan Wencheng, General Manager of HHAn-Wuhan Polar Ocean Park, expressed the park’s dedication to supporting Wuhan’s growth over the past 13 years. As a key urban tourism landmark, the park plans to construct a 2,000-square-meter science education museum focusing on Yangtze River aquatic organisms and ecological protection. This initiative aims to foster public understanding and appreciation for aquatic biodiversity and drive conservation efforts in the region.

Source : Global Spotlight on International Aquarium Conference as It Moves from Mexico to China

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CCPIT Reports 90% of Foreign Firms Surveyed Are Satisfied with China’s Business Environment

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China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) held a press release in Beijing on October 31. (Photo:Zhang Yiyi/GT)

A CCPIT survey reveals 90% of foreign firms find China’s business environment satisfactory, with growing optimism and increased investment plans, particularly among European companies, primarily in eastern regions.


Positive Business Sentiment in China

The China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) recently reported that 90% of surveyed foreign enterprises consider China’s business environment "satisfactory" or better. Their findings, shared during a press release in Beijing on October 31, revealed rising optimism among European and U.S. companies regarding market conditions for 2024.

Increasing Investment Willingness

Approximately 20% of the foreign firms surveyed indicated plans to increase their investments in China, marking a 2.07% rise from the previous month. Notably, European companies displayed heightened interest, with a 2.5% increase. The eastern region of China emerged as a preferred investment area, with 59.52% of firms looking to expand production lines or enhance digital transformations.

Commitment to Support Foreign Businesses

CCPIT spokesperson Sun Xiao emphasized the importance of improving services for foreign-invested enterprises. With a focus on enhancing market access and closing procedures, the council aims to better serve the needs of these businesses, fostering a conducive environment for foreign investment in the country.

Source : 90% of surveyed foreign firms are satisfied with China’s business environment: CCPIT

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US Enacts New Investment Restrictions on AI and Semiconductor Technologies in China

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Hanshika Ujlayan

The US has implemented regulations restricting investments in key technology sectors in China, citing national security risks, particularly concerning AI and semiconductors, following President Biden’s previous executive order.


US Investment Restrictions on Key Technology Sectors

The United States has implemented new regulations that restrict investments in crucial technology sectors in China, including artificial intelligence and semiconductors, driven by national security concerns. The Treasury Department’s announcement marks a significant change in the US stance on foreign investment in critical technologies.

Effective January 2, US citizens, residents, and companies will be barred from transactions involving advanced technologies. Investors must also alert the Treasury about investments in less advanced technologies that pose potential national security risks, reflecting a broader approach to safeguarding American interests.

These restrictions stem from growing worries about China’s technological capabilities and military applications. The move follows President Biden’s previous executive order to prevent US investments from unintentionally benefiting adversaries. As tensions rise, these regulations are expected to impact the global tech industry significantly.

Source : US implements new investment restrictions on AI and semiconductors in China

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