China Taxes Condoms Amid Declining Birth Rate
China will impose a 13% VAT on condoms and contraceptive drugs from January 1, ending a 30-year exemption. Experts warn of risks to public health as social media users ridicule the move.
China will impose a 13% VAT on condoms and contraceptive drugs from January 1, ending a 30-year exemption. Experts warn of risks to public health as social media users ridicule the move.
China ends a 30-year tax exemption on contraceptives, imposing a 13% VAT from 1 January. This 'carrot-and-stick' approach aims to boost the birth rate, but experts doubt its effectiveness. Explore the policy shift and public reaction.
The US Senate has confirmed billionaire private astronaut and Elon Musk ally Jared Isaacman as the next NASA administrator. The 67-30 vote sets the stage for a renewed space race with China.
First Dog on the Moon recounts the painful moment a cricket ball smashed into their face, blending humour with a stark lesson in physics and safety. Read the full story.
Ben & Jerry's co-founder accuses new owner Magnum of trying to 'silence' the brand's social mission after the chair and two directors are removed from the independent board.
Discover your star sign's forecast for Tuesday 16 December 2025. The Moon in Scorpio encourages meaningful connection and emotional honesty for all zodiac signs.
Japan alleges Chinese warships directed fire-control radar at its fighter jets near disputed islands, escalating tensions. Read the full details of the confrontation.
NASA and ESA have released new images of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, which exhibits a mysterious 'heartbeat' pulse. Discover what scientists say about its close Earth approach on December 19.
From the Cold Moon rising over Gaza to Seoul's first snow and a dejected Ben Stokes, explore the powerful images that defined Friday, December 5th, 2025.
Violinist Laura Cannell releases her darkest Christmas album yet, 'Brightly Shone the Moon', offering a murky and melancholy twist on familiar carols. Discover this sonic journey through bleakness and beauty.
As AI expands, datacentres' massive water consumption raises urgent environmental questions. Explore the sustainability challenge facing the tech industry.
A stunning two-metre mirrored replica of the Moon, created with NASA data, will go on display at the Royal Observatory Greenwich in March 2026. Tickets from £12.
The December 2025 Full Moon in Gemini urges honest communication. Discover your star sign's tarot card and guidance for closing the year with clarity. Join Kerry King's Tarot Club for a free month.
The UK government has postponed its ruling on China's controversial 'super-embassy' near Tower Bridge to 20 January, aligning with Keir Starmer's planned trip to Beijing. Read the latest on the diplomatic and security implications.
Billionaire private astronaut Jared Isaacman faces a second Senate hearing for NASA leadership, amid a political saga involving Trump, Elon Musk, and a race to the moon. Read the full analysis.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer warns China poses real security threats but urges a 'sober realist' policy. He also defends his foreign approach as a post-Brexit shift. Read the latest.
Discover why Brockwell Park is London's top winter walk, featuring a historic Grade II-listed pub, The Half Moon, named one of the best in the UK. Plan your perfect weekend outing.
Discover your weekly tarot reading for love and relationships as Venus moves into Sagittarius and a Full Moon in Gemini brings party energy. Find out what the cards have in store for your zodiac sign.
Wembley Stadium hosts a thrilling friendly as England face China. Fran Kirby honoured pre-match. Team news and last-minute squad update revealed.
In explosive EastEnders scenes, Jean Slater admits to terrorising Zoe Slater, but is she really the stalker? Plus, Tommy Moon faces false accusations as the drama intensifies.
Snooker legend Ronnie O'Sullivan reveals he would retire if not for his partnerships in China and Saudi Arabia. Get the full story on his future plans.
Keira Walsh captains England against China in a sold-out Wembley friendly. A tactical test for both sides as they build towards future tournaments. Follow the action.
A record 3.7 million applicants in China are competing for just 38,100 civil service roles, highlighting a major shift towards job security amid economic uncertainty. Discover the driving forces behind this trend.
Acquire a signed, limited edition fine art print from Mimi Mollica's acclaimed Moon City series. This urgent meditation on London's financial skyline and the cosmos ends 8 December.
Donald Trump has reportedly urged Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to 'dial down the volume' in the dispute with China over Taiwan. Discover the diplomatic implications.
Protests erupt in China's Guizhou province over a controversial cremation directive, highlighting a 70% surge in rural unrest. Explore the clash between policy and tradition.
On the eve of the budget, we assess the criticism facing Chancellor Rachel Reeves, her pitch to Labour MPs, and the potential for tax rises. Plus, a warning on China tariffs.
Taiwan's Prime Minister Cho Jung-tai declares a 'return' to China is not an option following a phone call between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump. Explore the escalating tensions.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping told Donald Trump that Taiwan's return remains vital to China's interests during their recent phone discussion. Read the full analysis.
Zoe Slater's stalker nightmare escalates in EastEnders Christmas special as she accuses brother Tommy. Read the shocking spoilers and dramatic twists ahead.