Latest news with #Wei
AllAfrica
7 hours ago
- Politics
- AllAfrica
To drink or not to drink – the Party decides in China
China is seeking to transform its spirits sector by prohibiting civil servants from drinking at official events while at the same time encouraging the public to drink more during family gatherings. The central government has instructed civil servants to refrain from consuming alcohol at official meetings since 2012. The original idea behind the official ban was to reduce public expenses and improve the public image of civil servants. Under the rules, many officials altered their drinking habits by rescheduling their sessions from lunch to dinner or hosting personal parties after all official meetings had concluded. At the same time, businesspeople offered officials expensive spirits as gifts, creating corruption issues. Although the central government has continued to tighten its 'alcohol ban', many civil servants habitually break the rules, with most of them managing to get away with it. Some others, however, have been arrested for drunk driving. A recent incident in Inner Mongolia has triggered changes to the booze rules. On May 6, Wei Shuanshi, deputy director of the finance and economy committee of the People's Congress of Inner Mongolia, a senior official at the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of Inner Mongolia, and party secretary of Baotou Iron and Steel (Group) Co, accompanied a relative to go to the Baotou No.4 Hospital. Wei had a gathering with former colleagues surnamed Wang, Guo, and He in the hospital. On May 7, they had dinner with three other medical staff members. Wei said he would pay the bill and bring him a bottle of old Maotai spirit. During the dinner, Wei, Wang, Guo and one more colleague, Jiang, finished the bottle. On average, each had 125 grams of the 53% ABV liquor. After the meal, Wei asked a private firm executive to pay the bill, violating the Communist Party of China (CCP)'s anti-graft rule. Wang, Guo and Jiang went to a barbecue shop for a second round of drinking. At 6 am on May 8, Guo died at home due to alcohol poisoning. His family asked Wei to pay them compensation for his death, but they disagreed on the amount. Guo's family threatened to report the case to the CCP's disciplinary committee. On May 15, Wei reported the case to the committee. While the case initially appeared to be Guo's fault for drinking excessively at his late-evening gathering, the disciplinary committee investigated Wei for being involved in other serious violations of Party discipline and suspected illegal activities. It also punished or warned all others involved in the incident, including two team leaders who did not attend the dinner. On May 18, the State Council and the CCP Central Committee announced that civil servants are prohibited from drinking or smoking on any occasion related to their work. Officials now need approval to attend meal receptions and must avoid unnecessary private gatherings. The new rules quickly put market pressure on key spirits makers in China. Kweichow Moutai fell 11.5% within a month after the announcement, while Wuliangye Yibin dropped 10.7%. On June 18, China Central Television published an online commentary titled 'Forbidding meals that violate the discipline rules, but not all meals.' The commentary stated that some local governments had overinterpreted the new 'alcohol ban,' harming the catering sector and its workers. For example, a bank manager in Anhui was fined 3,000 yuan (approximately US$417) for having noodles with two clients; ordinary party members avoided meeting with friends; government departments screened every meal and reception; and a town in Gansu banned its civil servants from drinking, the commentary said. 'Everyday dining is the foundation of people's livelihoods, the heart of humanity and the pulse of the economy,' writes Li Jialin, the author of the opinion piece. 'The alcohol ban is supposed to be used precisely like a scalpel to curb corruption, but some local governments used it like a sledgehammer to break everything.' 'Local government officials seemed to be proactively implementing the alcohol ban, but they had a lazy governance mentality, misinterpreted the new rules, and disregarded people's livelihoods,' Li wrote. 'Now restaurants lose customers and their staff make less money. The decline spills over to the food supply chain.' He says China's catering industry saw revenue of more than 5.5 trillion yuan in 2024, supporting the livelihoods of over 30 million people. He says local governments must learn to distinguish between meals that violate the discipline rules and everyday meals; civil servants can drink a little in private meetings, as long as they can still perform their duties. Some commentators in Guizhou, home of many baijiu makers, including Kweichow Moutai, said the CCTV commentary clearly defined the drinking rules for civil servants. 'In 1985, the Soviet Union's strict alcohol ban resulted in a surge in bootleg liquor and social unrest,' a Guizhou-based writer says. 'The Gorbachev government shut down distilleries and raised prices, which fueled a black market. The policy failed due to high implementation costs.' 'This case serves as a lesson: policy implementation must balance rigid constraints with social realities, avoiding counterproductive effects caused by excessive intervention,' she says. She adds that the public has gradually come to understand that the alcohol ban should be reasonably implemented, allowing civil servants to maintain their everyday social lives. An analyst at the research unit of Guizhou Center Brewing Group says Beijing's core message is that officials should avoid drinking high-end liquor in meetings. At the same time, local governments should facilitate the general public's need to drink. 'The CCTV article encourages normal consumption of cheaper liquor, which refers to those that are tens of yuans per bottle,' he says. 'Small spirits brands would benefit if their marketing campaigns highlight warm-heartedness among friends and family.' On June 22, state media published a list of scenarios outlining when, where and how civil servants can drink. Civil servants are prohibited from attending eight types of banquets, including weddings, funerals and other similar events. They must remain vigilant when attending 12 formal or informal banquets that utilize public funds and government venues. Despite an alcohol ban for civil servants, demand among younger generation drinkers can help keep Chinese baijiu makers buoyant, analysts say. Industry analysis shows that men aged 35-55 remain the core consumer group of baijiu (over 52% ABV) in China, accounting for more than 65% of the spirits market. They are mainly senior corporate executives and government officials. Consumers aged 20-35 account for only 19% of the baijiu market. They prefer fruit punch and pre-mixed alcoholic drinks (6% to 16% ABV). Female drinkers account for 41% in this age group. A survey compiled by Wuliangye showed that only 19% of consumers aged 20-35 prefer baijiu, 52% fancy beer and 29% like foreign wine and fruit liquor. Wuliangye announced that it will launch a spirits product with 29% ABV for young consumers in the second half of this year. Luzhou Laojiao, a Sichuan-based liquor maker, said it developed a baijiu with 28% ABV and will launch products with 6% and 16% ABV. An industry report stated that China's spirits production fell by 13.33% to 650,000 kiloliters in 2024 compared to the previous year. It was the first decline recorded since 2019. However, the combined revenue of spirits makers grew 4.35% to 240 billion yuan ($34.3 billion), while their net profit rose 3.19% to 97 billion yuan. Although spirits makers no longer enjoy double-digit growth, they can maintain mild growth and buy time to explore new markets, the report said.
Hype Malaysia
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
Wei Daxun Named TUMI's Asia-Pacific Ambassador For 'Uncompromisingly Light' Campaign
Yay! TUMI has revealed that esteemed Chinese actor Wei Daxun is its new Asia-Pacific Brand Ambassador! The announcement follows the opening of TUMI's new Shanghai flagship store earlier this month, both serving as key milestones in the brand's continued global expansion and commitment to the global traveller. Recognised as one of China's most celebrated actors, Wei Daxun has captivated audiences across Asia with his versatility, charisma, and sincerity. From film and television to music and philanthropy, his multifaceted career has earned him both critical acclaim and the lasting admiration of fans. Driven by professionalism, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Wei naturally embodies the values that have defined TUMI for the past 50 years: precision, creativity, and a spirit of constant forward motion. Wei makes his official campaign debut in the third and final chapter of TUMI's 19 Degree Lite 'Uncompromisingly Light' campaign, which celebrates innovation, modern design, and the freedom of movement through the lens of those who live life constantly in motion. Directed by David Pun and shot by renowned photographer GK (国琨), the campaign captures the quiet intensity of Wei's lifestyle as he moves fluidly between cities, sets, and fleeting moments. Along the way, he's equipped with travel companions that match his rhythm: the ultra-lightweight 19 Degree Lite and the dependable Alpha Bravo collection. The story highlights how 19 Degree Lite keeps pace with him—adapting seamlessly and supporting every leg of the journey – while the Alpha Bravo Navigation Backpack offers the reliability and functionality he needs as someone who is always on the move. For Wei, home isn't a place — it's a feeling. And in the consistency of what he carries, he finds the space to move with confidence and ease, no matter where he's headed. 'Wei brings an energy and authenticity that seamlessly aligns with TUMI's values,' says Creative Director Victor Sanz. 'He is a true reflection of the modern global traveller: intentional, dynamic, and always in motion.' 'It's an honour to join the TUMI family,' says Wei. 'I've long admired the brand's dedication to timeless quality and purpose. Their collections are designed for real life, and they move with me wherever I go, whatever I do.' The brand proudly adds Wei Daxun to its prestigious and multifaceted ambassador roster alongside beloved McLaren Formula 1 Team Driver Lando Norris, LPGA Tour Professional Golfer Nelly Korda and PGA Tour Professional Golfer Ludvig Åberg. Through precision-led design, global storytelling and acclaimed talent, TUMI continues to distinguish itself as a leader in the luxury travel and lifestyle space. Stay tuned for exclusive campaign content on @TUMITravel social channels.
Korea Herald
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
TUMI INTRODUCES NEW ASIA-PACIFIC BRAND AMBASSADOR WEI DAXUN
A new journey begins with Wei Daxun, as TUMI unveils the final chapter of its global 19 Degree Lite Campaign. NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the leading international travel, lifestyle and accessories brand TUMI proudly announces esteemed Chinese actor Wei Daxun as its new Asia-Pacific Brand Ambassador. The announcement follows the opening of TUMI's new Shanghai flagship store earlier this month, both serving as key milestones in the brand's continued global expansion and commitment to the global traveler. Recognized as one of China's most celebrated actors, Wei Daxun has captivated audiences across Asia with his versatility, charisma, and sincerity. From film and television to music and philanthropy, his multifaceted career has earned him both critical acclaim and the lasting admiration of fans. Driven by professionalism, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Wei naturally embodies the values that have defined TUMI for the past 50 years: precision, creativity, and a spirit of constant forward motion. Wei makes his official campaign debut in the third and final chapter of TUMI's 19 Degree Lite "Uncompromisingly Light" campaign, which celebrates innovation and the freedom of movement through the lens of those who live life constantly in motion. Directed by David Pun and shot by renowned photographer GK (国琨), the campaign captures the quiet intensity of Wei's lifestyle as he moves fluidly between cities, sets, and fleeting moments. Along the way, he's equipped with travel companions that match his rhythm: the ultra-lightweight 19 Degree Lite and the versatile Alpha Bravo collection. The story highlights how 19 Degree Lite keeps pace with him—adapting seamlessly and supporting every leg of the journey—while the Alpha Bravo Navigation Backpack offers the reliability and functionality he needs as someone who is always on the move. For Wei, home isn't a place — it's a feeling. And in the consistency of what he carries, he finds the space to move with confidence and ease, no matter where he's headed. "Wei brings an energy and authenticity that seamlessly aligns with TUMI's values," says Creative Director Victor Sanz. "He is a true reflection of the modern global traveler: intentional, dynamic, and always in motion." "It's an honor to join the TUMI family," says Wei. "I've long admired the brand's dedication to timeless quality and purpose. Their collections are designed for real life, and they move with me wherever I go, whatever I do." The brand proudly adds Wei Daxun to its prestigious and multifaceted ambassador roster alongside beloved McLaren Formula 1 Team Driver Lando Norris, LPGA Tour Professional Golfer Nelly Korda and PGA Tour Professional Golfer Ludvig Åberg. Through precision-led design, global storytelling and acclaimed talent, TUMI continues to distinguish itself as a leader in the luxury travel and lifestyle space. Stay tuned for exclusive campaign content on @TUMITravel social channels. About TUMI Since 1975, TUMI has been creating world-class business, travel, and performance luxury essentials, designed to upgrade, uncomplicate and beautify all aspects of life on the move. Blending flawless functionality with a spirit of ingenuity, we're committed to empowering journeys as a lifelong partner to movers and makers in pursuit of their passions. For more about TUMI, visit and follow @TUMITravel on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. TUMI and TUMI logo are registered trademarks of Tumi, Inc. © 2025 Tumi, Inc. TUMI Media Contacts
Cision Canada
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Cision Canada
TUMI INTRODUCES NEW ASIA-PACIFIC BRAND AMBASSADOR WEI DAXUN Français
A new journey begins with Wei Daxun, as TUMI unveils the final chapter of its global 19 Degree Lite Campaign. NEW YORK, July 29, 2025 /CNW/ -- Today, the leading international travel, lifestyle and accessories brand TUMI proudly announces esteemed Chinese actor Wei Daxun as its new Asia-Pacific Brand Ambassador. The announcement follows the opening of TUMI's new Shanghai flagship store earlier this month, both serving as key milestones in the brand's continued global expansion and commitment to the global traveler. Recognized as one of China's most celebrated actors, Wei Daxun has captivated audiences across Asia with his versatility, charisma, and sincerity. From film and television to music and philanthropy, his multifaceted career has earned him both critical acclaim and the lasting admiration of fans. Driven by professionalism, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Wei naturally embodies the values that have defined TUMI for the past 50 years: precision, creativity, and a spirit of constant forward motion. Wei makes his official campaign debut in the third and final chapter of TUMI's 19 Degree Lite "Uncompromisingly Light" campaign, which celebrates innovation and the freedom of movement through the lens of those who live life constantly in motion. Directed by David Pun and shot by renowned photographer GK (国琨), the campaign captures the quiet intensity of Wei's lifestyle as he moves fluidly between cities, sets, and fleeting moments. Along the way, he's equipped with travel companions that match his rhythm: the ultra-lightweight 19 Degree Lite and the versatile Alpha Bravo collection. The story highlights how 19 Degree Lite keeps pace with him—adapting seamlessly and supporting every leg of the journey—while the Alpha Bravo Navigation Backpack offers the reliability and functionality he needs as someone who is always on the move. For Wei, home isn't a place — it's a feeling. And in the consistency of what he carries, he finds the space to move with confidence and ease, no matter where he's headed. "Wei brings an energy and authenticity that seamlessly aligns with TUMI's values," says Creative Director Victor Sanz. "He is a true reflection of the modern global traveler: intentional, dynamic, and always in motion." "It's an honor to join the TUMI family," says Wei. "I've long admired the brand's dedication to timeless quality and purpose. Their collections are designed for real life, and they move with me wherever I go, whatever I do." The brand proudly adds Wei Daxun to its prestigious and multifaceted ambassador roster alongside beloved McLaren Formula 1 Team Driver Lando Norris, LPGA Tour Professional Golfer Nelly Korda and PGA Tour Professional Golfer Ludvig Åberg. Through precision-led design, global storytelling and acclaimed talent, TUMI continues to distinguish itself as a leader in the luxury travel and lifestyle space. Stay tuned for exclusive campaign content on @TUMITravel social channels. Since 1975, TUMI has been creating world-class business, travel, and performance luxury essentials, designed to upgrade, uncomplicate and beautify all aspects of life on the move. Blending flawless functionality with a spirit of ingenuity, we're committed to empowering journeys as a lifelong partner to movers and makers in pursuit of their passions. For more about TUMI, visit and follow @TUMITravel on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. TUMI and TUMI logo are registered trademarks of Tumi, Inc. © 2025 Tumi, Inc. TUMI Media Contacts Plug Agency for TUMI Selina Parmanand | [email protected] SOURCE Tumi, Inc.
Hans India
2 days ago
- Climate
- Hans India
38 killed, trains suspended as heavy rain lashes China
Beijing: At least 38 people were killed as torrential rain wreaked havoc across China, forcing evacuations and disrupting traffic. Of the 38, Beijing recorded 30 deaths, while eight were killed in Hebei province due to a landslide triggered by heavy rain. The rainstorm alert in the Chinese capital was cancelled on Tuesday as the rainbands weakened and shifted eastward, although showers were still forecast for the afternoon and evening. The city remains at its highest level of flood-control emergency response. In Mentougou District, 15,195 people had been evacuated as of 8 a.m. Tuesday, and all 19 major tourist sites had been closed. In Pinggu District, more than 12,800 people have been relocated, with 40 emergency shelters set up in gyms, schools, hotels and village offices. A total of 34 teams involving 1,073 personnel have been deployed for flood response in Pinggu, Xinhua news agency reported. The city's meteorological bureau said the Chinese capital recorded an average of 72.2 mm of rainfall between 8 p.m. Monday and 10 a.m. Tuesday, with a peak of 196.5 mm reported at Yancun Station in Fangshan District. Authorities confirmed that 30 people had died in Beijing as of midnight Monday, including 28 in Miyun District and two in Yanqing. In Hebei province, a rain-triggered landslide in Luanping County has killed eight people, with four others still missing. Officials said that all residents of the affected village will be relocated as a safety precaution. In neighbouring Tianjin Municipality, more than 10,500 people had been evacuated from Jizhou District after floodwaters entered 13 villages along the Juhe River as of Monday night. "The floodwaters swept right past my doorstep, and even our tricycle was carried away," said a 63-year-old evacuee surnamed Wei. Du Hanyong, principal of a middle school serving as a temporary shelter in Jizhou, said the facility is stocked with sufficient food, water and essentials, and the cafeteria is ready to operate if needed. The downpours have also disrupted rail services. Railway authorities on Tuesday temporarily suspended some trains on the Beijing-Harbin high-speed railway, and multiple trains on a railway linking Beijing with Baotou, a city in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, have been suspended or rerouted.
