Macron threatens tariffs on Chinese goods but seeks trade deal with EU

China has reported its first annual investment decline in 30 years, with economic data for November indicating deepening domestic issues. Retail sales have grown at their slowest pace in three years, and investment has sharply slowed, reflecting increased caution among consumers and businesses. This downturn comes despite a record trade surplus of $1.08 trillion, highlighting a significant gap between exports and imports.

The European trucking industry faces significant challenges in achieving zero emissions targets, with only 10,000 of the 6 million trucks in the EU being electric, primarily used for short routes. The industry body has expressed dire concerns about the current trajectory as the European Commission considers relaxing electric vehicle targets.

Jimmy Lai, a prominent pro-democracy media mogul in Hong Kong, has been convicted in a high-profile national security trial for lobbying foreign governments to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and China. The trial, which was conducted without a jury, has raised serious concerns regarding judicial independence and media freedom in the region.

The French government has expressed strong concerns regarding the European Union's trade deal with Latin American countries, particularly the EU-Mercosur agreement. This development highlights ongoing tensions between France and the EU over trade policies that could impact local agriculture and environmental standards.

German businesses and politicians are increasingly questioning the long-standing policy of unfettered free trade with China, marking a significant shift in sentiment after decades of reliance on Chinese manufacturing. This reconsideration comes as Germany seeks to reassess its economic ties amid rising concerns about China's growing dominance in global markets.

China's economy is experiencing a broad-based deterioration, marked by declines in consumer spending, investment, and real estate activity. Recent reports indicate that the services sector's growth has slowed significantly, with key indices reflecting the lowest levels in months.

British astronaut Tim Peake has called for the United States and China to collaborate on lunar missions, advocating for a cooperative approach rather than escalating tensions reminiscent of a space race. He emphasizes the importance of unity in exploring the moon's potential for scientific advancement.

Supporters of media mogul Jimmy Lai gathered outside a Hong Kong court as the verdict in his national security trial approached. Lai, arrested in 2020 under a controversial national security law imposed by China, has faced serious charges including collusion and sedition. The trial has drawn significant attention due to its implications for freedom of expression in Hong Kong.