China consumer prices rise 0.3% amid deflation fears
Consumer prices in China rose for the ninth consecutive month in October, with a 0.3% increase driven by higher food prices, including vegetables and pork. However, concerns about deflation persist as prices for automobiles and smartphones decline, and sluggish housing sales have led to lower prices for furniture and home appliances. In response, the Chinese government unveiled a 10 trillion RMB ($1.4 trillion) package to support regional governments impacted by the real estate slump, though its effectiveness remains uncertain given the country’s slowing economic growth. China’s GDP grew 4.6% in Q3, falling short of the government’s target of around 5%.