Make room Starbucks and McDonald's. China's Mixue and other brands win fans in Southeast Asia

Childcare provider Genius has closed several centres in Australia amid claims of underpaid staff and unpaid rent, leading to legal action by the United Workers Union to recover wages and penalties. Parents and workers are frustrated by poor communication and financial struggles, with some staff going without pay since February. The Fair Work Ombudsman is investigating the situation. Full Article

out of the summary. A B.C. woman has returned home after being detained by U.S. immigration officials. The woman's detention sparked concerns and prompted calls for action from her family and community. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by immigrants and the need for improved immigration policies and procedures. Full Article

Ministers are considering dropping plans to freeze some disability benefits, including Personal Independence Payments (PIP), to avoid a potential Commons vote. The government will tighten PIP eligibility criteria and introduce a "right to try" guarantee for disabled individuals seeking employment. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to reveal welfare spending reductions of £5-6bn in her Spring Statement, aiming to address rising costs and inefficiencies in the system. Full Article

Chinese videostreaming platform iQiyi will open its first theme park, "iQiyi Land," in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, featuring attractions based on characters from their shows. The park, set to open later this year, will include immersive theater, interactive film sets, and virtual reality experiences. This move follows a trend of companies investing in experience-based attractions in China, with Legoland and Warner Bros. Discovery also opening resorts and themed tours in Shanghai. Full Article

Albania's opposition protests the government's decision to shut down TikTok ahead of parliamentary elections, accusing the left-wing government of censorship. The Democratic Party, led by Sali Berisha, organized the protest in Tirana, with demonstrators criticizing the government for corruption and manipulation. The Socialists, seeking a fourth term, are expected to win the upcoming election, while the opposition faces internal divisions and accusations of corruption, with Berisha recently released from house arrest. Full Article

Mexican authorities are investigating an "extermination" site in Jalisco, where human remains and ovens were found, believed to be linked to the New Generation Jalisco Cartel. The site contained bone fragments, shoes, clothing, and children’s toys, sparking fears for families of missing loved ones. The discovery has reignited concerns over cartel violence in Mexico, with calls for authorities to address the issue of mass graves and the 120,000 "forcibly disappeared" individuals in the country. Full...