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China's semiconductor sector is grappling with intensified US export restrictions, prompting calls for domestic innovation. Industry leaders emphasize the need for a self-sufficient technological ecosystem as chip imports surge amid fears of further sanctions. Despite challenges, China's integrated circuit exports have reached record levels, highlighting resilience in the face of geopolitical tensions.
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The European Union has finalized a significant trade agreement with Mercosur, a South American bloc, despite strong opposition from France. This deal aims to create one of the largest free trade zones globally, potentially reshaping international trade dynamics amid rising protectionism. Ratification remains uncertain as member states express differing views.
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Australia's government has introduced legislation to ban social media access for children under 16, citing mental health concerns. The bill, announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, holds platforms accountable for enforcing the age limit and is expected to pass by the end of the year. The legislation aims to protect children from harmful online content.
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Recent developments highlight the potential economic fallout from President Trump's proposed tariffs on Chinese goods, which could reach up to 60%. Analysts warn of significant impacts on both the US and Chinese economies, with businesses preparing for a new wave of trade tensions. The situation remains fluid as companies assess their strategies.
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The UK economy grew by only 0.1% in the third quarter of 2024, significantly below expectations. This disappointing figure follows Labour's election victory, raising concerns about the government's ability to stimulate growth amid rising taxes and uncertainty in business investment. The economy contracted by 0.1% in September, indicating a slowdown.
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Billionaire Ken Griffin advises President-elect Donald Trump to adopt moderate immigration and tax policies. Griffin warns that aggressive tactics could harm the economy, emphasizing the importance of immigrants in the workforce. He also suggests Apollo CEO Marc Rowan for Treasury Secretary, highlighting the need for fiscal responsibility amidst rising national debt.
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Calin Georgescu, a far-right candidate, unexpectedly won the first round of Romania's presidential election, raising concerns over TikTok's role in his campaign. The Romanian Constitutional Court has ordered a recount amid allegations of electoral fraud and cyberattacks. A runoff against centrist Elena Lasconi is scheduled for December 8.
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The EU-Mercosur trade agreement, hailed as a historic milestone, faces significant opposition from French farmers and some EU member states. Concerns over environmental standards and competition with South American agriculture threaten the deal's ratification, despite potential economic benefits for both regions.
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The EU is intensifying its focus on addressing Chinese economic overcapacity, particularly in the electric vehicle sector. Ursula von der Leyen's administration is exploring negotiations to avoid tariffs while preparing for potential retaliatory measures if discussions fail. This comes amid rising concerns over the impact of Chinese imports on European industries.
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On December 4, 2024, French Prime Minister Michel Barnier's government was ousted following a no-confidence vote, marking the first such event in over 60 years. The vote stemmed from opposition to Barnier's austerity budget, which included significant tax increases and spending cuts, leading to a political crisis in France.
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In Romania's recent parliamentary elections, the ruling Social Democratic Party secured the most votes, while far-right parties gained significant ground. The results reflect growing anti-establishment sentiment and set the stage for a contentious presidential runoff on December 8 between far-right candidate Călin Georgescu and centrist Elena Lasconi.
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Donald Trump will attend the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris this weekend, marking his first foreign trip since winning the US presidential election. The cathedral, which underwent extensive reconstruction after a devastating fire in 2019, will host high-security ceremonies attended by around 50 heads of state, including French President Emmanuel Macron.
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Meta reports minimal impact from AI-generated misinformation during major elections in 2024. The company claims that existing policies effectively mitigated risks, with AI-related misinformation constituting less than 1% of fact-checked content. Despite concerns, the use of AI in disinformation campaigns was limited, according to Meta's findings.
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The debate surrounding Japan's proposed 60% greenhouse gas emissions reduction by 2035 has sparked criticism over the decision-making process. Concerns include the composition of policy-setting panels and the need for broader stakeholder involvement, particularly from younger generations and those affected by climate change.
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The European Union has downgraded the protection status of wolves, allowing for regulated hunting to address livestock predation. This decision, effective March 2025, has sparked significant backlash from conservationists who fear it could reverse decades of recovery efforts for the species.
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An investigation into former EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders has been launched regarding possible money laundering practices. The probe follows his recent departure from office and includes house searches. The investigation is reportedly linked to money laundering through the national lottery.
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The Competition and Markets Authority has approved the £15 billion merger between Vodafone and Three, creating the UK's largest mobile network. The decision follows a thorough investigation and includes conditions to protect competition and consumer prices. The merger aims to enhance investment in the UK's telecom infrastructure.
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Romania's Constitutional Court annulled the first round of presidential elections due to alleged Russian interference via social media. The court's decision follows declassified intelligence reports indicating a coordinated campaign to promote far-right candidate Călin Georgescu, who has expressed pro-Russian sentiments. A new election date is yet to be announced.