IN BRIEF (Page 18)

Factory slowdown signals further weakness

China's manufacturing sector slowed more than estimated in August, suggesting the economy is losing momentum.

Pact 'should be done by 2015'

Negotiators say success will depend on quality of free trade agreement

Stitching the right patterns for growth

Egypt's turbulent past left the hopes of one Chinese textile entrepreneur in tatters, but gradually business is recovering, reports Fu Jing.

Financial fortunes diverge for emerging, traditional sectors

The interim results of Chinese listed companies offer a mixed picture, with emerging industries demonstrating rapid growth while traditional sectors stall.

What's news

Former CSRC official to head Shenzhen exchange

China, Russia start construction of joint-venture natural gas pipeline

China and Russia on Monday started the construction of a joint natural gas pipeline in Russia's eastern Siberia, as they implement a natural gas supply contract signed between the two countries.

Evergrande is sowing seeds for future growth

Developer sets up three subsidiaries for agriculture-related businesses

Alibaba reportedly starting roadshow for IPO on Sept 8

Alibaba Group Holding Ltd is postponing the start of investor meetings for its initial public offering by about a week to answer questions from the US Securities and Exchange Commission, according to a person with knowledge of the matter.

'Antitrust probes aim to ensure market transparency and rights of consumers'

Editor's note:

Mergers and acquisitions expanding across the nation's technology sector

This year has witnessed a sharp rise in M&A activities in China's technology sector.

Risks loom for London property buyers

Investors should realize owning a famous building is no substitute for steady rents