Stories from Changsha · China

A new trend in DIY crafting, particularly 3D crafts, is gaining popularity among young people for its stress-relieving and healing qualities. This trend is observed in places like Changsha, where even unmanned self-service craft stations are emerging.

Over 6,000 liters of South African wine successfully cleared customs at the Changsha Huanghua Comprehensive Bonded Zone. This marks the first batch of goods in Hunan province to benefit from China's zero-tariff policy for all African countries with diplomatic ties. The shipment received a tax reduction of 21,000 yuan. Lan Shengbin, deputy director of Changsha Customs, stated that the comprehensive logistics channel has reduced traditional logistics costs by nearly 20%. China has maintained its position as Africa's largest trading partner for over a decade. Changsha Customs Deputy Commissioner Lan Shengbin stated that non-trade cooperation is transitioning toward institutional openness. Logistics costs for African specialty products have been reduced by nearly 20% through new rail-sea intermodal channels.

Police impounded vehicles following the discovery of multiple illegal refuelling activities in densely populated areas. In Changshao, a mobile refuelling station is suspected of charging between $300 and $540. These rates are reportedly about twice the original fare.

A son of the president at the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine is under investigation for allegedly receiving 'ghost salaries' and duplicate bonuses.

A 25-year-old woman in Hunan province died five months after being diagnosed with melanoma. The family claims her heart stopped during the operation. Despite interventions, she could not be saved. Hatice Öncü, 23, died after undergoing nasal surgery. According to her family, a doctor arrived 1.5 hours after the surgery, which they claimed went well. The family stated she was taken to a room but later received news of her death. Her sister, who had a similar surgery at the same hospital by a different doctor, reported her procedure lasted 4 hours, while Öncü's lasted 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Chinese media reported on the historical use of external medicinal applications, citing records from the Mawangdui Han Dynasty tombs in Changsha. The report highlights that these methods, including the use of earthworms, were used across various medical fields such as internal medicine, surgery, and dermatology. These traditional techniques are noted for their rapid efficacy and ability to mitigate drug toxicity. A Chinese cookbook titled 'Good Medicine Is Not Bitter to the Mouth' uses traditional Chinese medicine ingredients in desserts. The wearing of traditional Hui clothing is decreasing, particularly among younger generations in China. Many older people associate the attire with a lack of education, while younger people prefer more fashionable Western clothing. This trend has led to fewer people wearing the traditional garments.