Liao Yiwu is one of the most renowned Chinese authors. Due to his critical views of the Chinese government, his books are banned in China. With "Wuhan – A Documentary Novel" he has now published a new book. Speaking with Michael Radunski, Liao Yiwu talks about Covid, the truth in China, and the consequences for foreign countries.
By Michael Radunski
China's economic engine creaks under the current lockdowns. And the supply of goods is also stalling, both for preliminary products and manufactured goods. There is a risk of shortages around the globe – and in Europe, existing problems could be significantly exacerbated.
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Chinese brands are overtaking former Western heavyweights. One example is Luckin Coffee. Starbucks used to dominate the market for on-the-go coffee. Now, a domestic competitor is taking over. The ingredients are the same as in other sectors: A better sense of the market and a head start on digitization. Zero Covid speeds up the shift.
By Redaktion Table
Taipei is on high alert, not only since the Russian invasion of Ukraine - however, the war in Europe has sparked a debate in Taiwan about extending conscription. But experts say that is impossible in the short term. For reservists, however, refresher training has already been overhauled. One participant recounts his impressions of the "toughest training in the history" of the island for China.Table.
By Redaktion Table
The next few weeks will be crucial for China's spring sowing season. But Beijing's zero-covid strategy hits the agricultural sector hard. In the northeastern province of Jilin in particular, where a lot of corn is grown, sowing might not happen at all this year. This adds to the problematic situation around the world.
By Ning Wang
An Italian shares his day-to-day life in a quarantine center in Shanghai with the world. His story is absurdly funny, but tragic at the same time. Alessandro Pavanello describes how his life changed after a positive test.
By Redaktion Table
To keep production going despite China's zero-covid policy, companies in affected regions have employees sleep in groups on site after work. The closed-loop method is supposed to keep the virus out. But this only works as long as companies still receive preliminary products.
By Christiane Kuehl
Cars are hardly ever bought online. Not even by the otherwise digital-savvy Chinese customers. But new business models and vehicles could lead to a change. German manufacturers try to lead the way.
By Christian Domke Seidel
China's Trojan Horse in Europe? The Orbán government won the parliamentary elections in Hungary by a large majority. By threatening to cut funding, the EU may be driving the country into Beijing's open arms.
By Amelie Richter
The Ukrainian government is reluctant to criticize China's "neutral" position on Russia's war of aggression. Instead, Kyiv sees an opportunity in the People's Republic's close ties to Vladimir Putin and would even welcome China's stronger role. But even a month and a half after the war broke out, there has been no direct interaction between the two presidents.
By Frank Sieren
