Evolving consumer habits signify a different reality

Retail sales of consumer goods have grown at a slower pace this year. From double-digit growth in previous years, retails sales have fallen single-digit growth this year, except for March, sparking concerns that China is experiencing consumption downgrading.

By blaming China for all its ills, the West cannot hide its weakness

Following the United States and Australia, Japan is mulling banning Chinese telecommunications companies Huawei and ZTE from participating in its 5G network on the grounds of national security.

Forex reserves dip slightly in August

China's foreign exchange reserves fell slightly to $3.11 trillion in August, according to data the People's Bank of China released on Friday.

Fonterra to triple dairy product sales in China

New Zealand's Fonterra, the world's biggest dairy exporter, is planning to triple its sales in China, including ultra-high temperature and pasteurized milk, to further consolidate its market position, a top company official said.

Hainan inks deals to further tourism push

The nation's southernmost Hainan province will build a group of brand-name theme parks and other resorts, furthering its push to become an international tourism destination.

AIIB focuses on dispute resolution process

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, a multilateral financial institution headquartered in Beijing, held an international legal conference in the capital this week to examine and promote effective dispute resolution.

Dialogue to boost relations with Italy

Constructive dialogue on economic and financial policies will help promote closer ties between China and Italy, especially at a time when the latter is determined to further open up its financial and goods markets, a top Italian official said.

IN BRIEF (Page 5)

Will the Nobel Prize winners speak at the forum - does it matter?

IN THE PAST MONTHS, dozens of Nobel Prize winners in economics, medical science, physics and chemistry have attended forums and conferences in China at the invitation of companies, media and local governments. Science and Technology Daily comments:

Mollycoddling of boys also to blame for feminization trend

MALE STARS with feminine looks have become popular, but it is part of a trend among boys, whose lack of masculinity has long been a problem discussed online. Thepaper.cn comments:

Laws must have teeth in regulating business

THE CENTRAL AUTHORITIES initiated a special investigation into the car hailing companies on Wednesday, beginning with Didi Chuxing, the largest player in the industry. Legal Daily comments:

UK should try to have more than one friend

In what the Foreign Ministry described on Thursday as a "provocative" move that has infringed on China's sovereignty and violated Chinese and international laws, a British Royal Navy warship entered Chinese territorial waters around the Xisha Islands in the South China Sea on August 31, triggering strong complaints from China.