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Class divide, uncertain future: Why China’s 13% contraceptive tax may have little impact

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Condom packages (top) are seen among other products at a supermarket in Beijing on January 4, 2026.(AFP) China has made condoms and other contraceptives more expensive as it tries to boost birth rates, but residents in Beijing and analysts say the measure will have little impact. Consumers must now pay a 13 percent value-added tax … Read more

Crossing Barcelona’s city divide: Joan Garcia, rats and fury at Espanyol

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Barcelona are braced for a rocky start to 2026. Later today, as La Liga returns from its winter break, Hansi Flick’s team face one of the toughest games of their season, nine kilometres south-west of the Camp Nou. At the RCDE Stadium in Cornella, their local rivals Espanyol are having their best campaign in decades. … Read more