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.
Full Article
Who are the Druze and why is Israel bombing Syria to ‘protect’ them? | Conflict
Israel conducted airstrikes in Syria, citing the need to protect the Druze minority amid clashes between Syrian government forces and Druze fighters. Osama Bin Javaid reports from Damascus, shedding light on the Druze community and their connection to Israel amidst the ongoing conflict. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Israel is helping the Druze people in Syria because they are in danger from fighting. Want More Context? 🔎
Read more