China’s “teapot” oil booms are keeping the economy growing – but rising prices are leaving them in trouble.

China's "teapot" oil booms are keeping the economy growing - but rising prices are leaving them in trouble.

TThe cities that are the bulwark of China’s energy security, in times of global crisis, can appear deceptively quiet. Oil trucks ply the open roads with little traffic, while a few quaint shops in dilapidated buildings give a hint of a long-forgotten local vibe. The ramshackle noodle shop serving hand-pulled noodles was empty at lunchtime, … Read more

The price of coffee is rising faster than any other grocery store – and the reason goes beyond fees.

The price of coffee is rising faster than any other grocery store - and the reason goes beyond fees.

The price of coffee is increasing faster than any other domestic grocery, and it is not only tariffs that drive this process – bad weather, war and frustration of market traders are also responsible for the rise. Coffee prices rose by a staggering 18.4% last year, according to government data from February. Most other household … Read more