Tobias

Adidas is facing accusations of cultural appropriation after releasing its “Oaxaca Slip-On” shoe, designed in collaboration with Chavarria. Critics allege it resembles the traditional Mexican “huarache” sandal, handcrafted by Zapotec artisans in Oaxaca. Mexican officials, including President Sheinbaum, have condemned the design and demanded reparations for affected artisans. Adidas and Chavarria have issued apologies, and discussions are underway regarding compensation and legislative reforms to protect traditional crafts, which significantly contribute to the Mexican economy.

A Chinese court rejected a lawsuit filed by a man seeking compensation after his mother tripped over another passenger’s luggage at a train station and later died. The court ruled that the woman, Ms. Wang, who was walking against the flow of traffic, was responsible for her own fall. Mr. Zhang, the passenger with the luggage, had no way to anticipate her actions and was not found negligent. The court cited the Civil Code of the People’s Republic of China in its decision.

Zhou Guanyu’s move to Scuderia Ferrari for the 2025 F1 season stems from his lifelong fandom and the team’s confidence in his potential. As revealed on Sina’s “Beyond the Heatwave,” Zhou, a Ferrari Driver Academy alumnus since 2014, sees Ferrari as the “ultimate destination” for his career growth. Officially announced as a reserve driver on February 5th, 2025, the move excites the Chinese racing community. Zhou departs Sauber after three years, having secured 16 championship points, proud of representing China as its first F1 driver.

An LED lamp shaped like the Hiroshima atomic bomb’s mushroom cloud has sparked intense outrage in Japan. Marketed with names referencing the event and reportedly popular in China, the product, often paired with a Hiroshima miniature, is viewed by Japanese netizens as a desecration of history and commercialization of pain. The backlash highlights lingering emotional wounds and a perceived lack of humanitarian sensitivity from Chinese sellers, reigniting debate surrounding the bombing’s complex moral and historical implications.

In June, 17 Chinese automakers pledged to cap supplier payments at 60 days. Two months later, some companies, including FAW, Dongfeng, and GAC, are actively working towards this goal, with three already achieving it. Companies are adjusting financial strategies and streamlining processes. This commitment aligns with upcoming regulations mandating 60-day payment terms for SMEs, aiming to improve the business environment and alleviate payment arrears. CCID highlights specific initiatives by FAW, GAC, and SERES.

Shenzhen-based Romoss, a portable charger manufacturer, is advertising a Gifts Channel Sales representative position after facing scrutiny due to product safety issues, production halts, and layoff accusations. The role, based in Nanshan, requires a bachelor’s degree and three years of experience, offering a monthly salary between ¥12,000 and ¥30,000. This recruitment follows reports of employee dissatisfaction, management changes, and rumors of bankruptcy, which Romoss denied on Weibo.

Xiaomi’s CEO, Lei Jun, initiated a poll about renaming the Xiaomi YU7 standard edition car. Initial results show a preference for keeping the “standard edition” title over adopting “Pro” or “Max.” Those favoring the current name believe the car’s quality speaks for itself. Those wanting a change hope it will improve market perception, as the YU7 boasts impressive specs despite its name. The poll addresses concerns that consumers underestimate the standard edition’s capabilities.

Elon Musk is threatening legal action against Apple over alleged antitrust violations related to the App Store. Musk claims Apple unfairly excludes X and his AI chatbot Grok from the “essential” category, hindering their visibility and disadvantaging AI startups. He argues Apple’s practices stifle competition and favor OpenAI. xAI plans to initiate legal proceedings immediately, potentially reshaping app distribution and competition within the AI sector.

Amidst global economic uncertainty, India aims to become the world’s third-largest economy. Prime Minister Modi urges self-reliance, indirectly responding to past criticisms. Reports suggest escalating tensions between the U.S. and India, with growing anti-American sentiment leading to calls for boycotts of American brands like McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, Amazon, and Apple. While U.S. companies target India’s affluent consumers, Trump-era tariffs have fueled campaigns promoting indigenous products, potentially impacting U.S. sales in this key market.

Zhang Xue, a 31-year-old online personality known for documenting her battle with brain cancer, has passed away. Her husband announced her death, sharing a touching farewell message on social media. Despite facing controversy for publicly sharing their journey, Zhang Xue’s husband defended their decision, stating she was aware and supportive. He had sold his business to fund her treatment after her diagnosis with glioblastoma in October 2024.