Beijing’s zero-Covid policies are curbing production and disrupting supply chains Widespread lockdowns introduced by the Chinese authorities to tackle the latest surge in Covid-19 cases have dragged down China’s April manufacturing and services activity.

Haribo says Russia-Ukraine conflict exacerbates an already tough economic environment German confectioner Haribo has reportedly announced plans to suspend supplies to Russia, as its recent economic difficulties there have been seriously aggravated by the military conflict between Moscow and Kiev.

French utility giant confirms 28 nuclear reactors are offline as Europe grapples with energy crisis France, one of Europe’s leading electricity exporters, has taken 28 of its 56 atomic reactors offline due to defects or maintenance. The step comes amid a months-long energy crunch, one of the worst in European history.