China’s exports fell for the fourth consecutive month in August, but the trade downturn eased slightly. Experts say China’s trade is set to worsen further this year, making policy support crucial for a turnaround rather than a revival in global demand or a rebound in domestic activity. Exports fell 8.8 percent year-on-year in August, the fourth consecutive month of loss, but topping Reuters poll predictions of a 9.49 percent drop and July’s record of minus 14.5 percent. According to the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), imports decreased 7.3 percent year-on-year, topping predictions of a minus 8.16 percent, which is better than the negative 12.4 percent reported in July....Read more https://www.theepochtimes.com/china/chinas-exports-fall-again-as-pressure-mounts-for-policy-support-5487623
Presidential elections in Taiwan are scheduled for Jan. 13, 2024. Political parties have started battling for votes in an event that holds high geopolitical stakes and is expected to set the course for future U.S.–China relations. Experts tell The Epoch Times that young voters in particular are seeking answers to the many problems facing the self-ruled island. With various political parties in the fray, they have ample alternatives. Although Taiwan’s elections are democratic, influence operations by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) are working overtime. Influence operations have evolved in recent years, using sophisticated techniques to affect voters’ perception of their reality in order to influence their choices.... 
The federal government has tapped Quebec Court of Appeal Justice Marie-Josée Hogue to lead the public inquiry into interference by foreign states, according to several reports. Media outlets have reported the news, citing anonymous sources, but have indicated that Minister Dominic Leblanc is expected to make the official announcement on Sept. 7. Mr. Leblanc, who is responsible for Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, said during the Liberal cabinet retreat at the end of August that parties were “real close” to finding the right candidate. The minister had refused to confirm rumours the hold-up was due to several sitting or retired judges refusing to take the role....