How a warning about food supply sparked panic buying in China | Analysis by jdisis
A version of this story appeared in CNN's Meanwhile in China newsletter, a three-times-a-week update exploring what you need to know about the country's rise and how it impacts the world. Sign up here.But the government's latest attempt to head off concerns about pricing and supply appears to be spiraling out of control. A missive about stockpiling food from China's Ministry of Commerce sparked panic buying among the public and frenzied online speculation this week.
There's nothing whatsoever to substantiate any rumors that China is preparing for imminent war. But the online panic does suggest some brewing tension, according to Willy Lam, an adjunct professor in the Department of History at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. "It is a reflection of the tense geopolitical situation between China and neighboring countries," he said.In authoritarian China, eating freely is a cherished activity.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
China tells citizens to stock up on supplies, prompting panic buying and fears of warA notice sent from the Commerce Ministry advised citizens to stock up in case of emergency but did not clarify that they were referring to a COVID-19 lockdown.
Read more »
China's advice to store up necessities sparks panic-buying and speculation of Taiwan warA seemingly innocuous Chinese government notice urging people to stock up on necessities in case of emergency sparked panic-buying and rumors of war.
Read more »
Food prices in China climbed every week of October, commerce ministry saysPrices in China are rising quickly for food and other commodities, increasing pressure for policymakers tasked with keeping growth stable.
Read more »
European lawmakers visit Taiwan, brushing off China's warningsThe trip was not officially confirmed until the multinational group of EU lawmakers landed in Taipei on Wednesday morning.
Read more »
Pentagon warns China is rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenalChina is rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal and may have 1,000 nuclear warheads by the end of the decade as it aims to surpass US global influence by the middle of the 21st century, according to a major Pentagon report released on Wednesday.
Read more »
New Orleans' Great Food And Good Weather Makes It An Ideal Couple's TripPlus 14 other destinations to rekindle your spark.
Read more »