China is defying global smoking trends with a surge in cigarette sales driven by the China National Tobacco Corporation, the world’s largest tobacco producer. Retail cigarette sales in China have been increasing for the past four years, reaching 2.44 trillion sticks in 2023, with forecasts predicting further growth to 2.48 trillion by 2028. Despite commitments to reduce smoking rates, China’s tobacco industry remains lucrative, with China Tobacco accounting for 97% of the country’s production and sales, generating about 1.5 trillion yuan ($210 billion) in revenue in fiscal year 2023.
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With Minnesota assassin suspect in custody, questions about his plot remain unanswered
Investigators are examining the alleged plot of Vance Boelter, accused of murdering Minnesota lawmakers Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, and shooting Sen. John Hoffman and his wife. Dressed as a police officer and armed with multiple firearms, Boelter's motive remains unclear, though his writings suggest a long-planned attack targeting elected officials, all Democrats. Need More Context? 🔎
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