Top Five China Stories of 2008

2008 was an incredible news year for China from the earthquake to the Olympics.    Here are a few of the highlights:

5. The Economy- Last year I listed the economy as one of the "Top China Stories to Watch in 2008," and sure enough, it didn't disappoint.  Granted, I did not anticipate the upcoming financial slowdown, or the way it would influence China in terms of slowing imports and exports.  China's GDP growth rate has dipped into single digits for the first time in years, and next year projections anticipate only about a 5% growth rate for the once seemingly unstoppable economy.  

It will be interesting to see how the economic situation evolves next year, and how China will help shape the global economy.

4. Tibetan Protests- While many pro-Tibetan activist groups have been protesting China's involvement in Tibet for years, the March riots of Tibetan monks took the activism to a new level.  The tensions in Tibet didn't just stay there, however, they recurred during the Olympic torch relay, resulting in angry protests and boycotts.  While the Tibetan issue has died down, talks between China and the Dalai Lama haven't been overly successful, so there could be more unrest to come. 

3. Melamine Milk- China's dairy industry was dealt a harsh blow after hundreds of thousands of infants were sickened by drinking melamine in their baby formulas.  The melamine fiasco exposed many weaknesses in China's food safety infrastructure, which authorities are trying to correct.  Let's hope it's not too little, too late.

2. The Sichuan Earthquake- May 12, 2008 will forever remain etched in China's memory.  With millions homeless, displaced, still missing, or dead, Sichuan Province will never be the same.  China's recent stimulus package will provide additional funding for the region, but the improved infrastructure can't replace much of what was lost.

1. The Olympics- Most Chinese refer to it as a dream several centuries in the making, and even with a few kinks, Beijing pulled off a spectacular event.  From the nearly flawless opening ceremonies to the tremendous athletic feats of Michael Phelps, Usain Bolt, and a host of other athletes, the Beijing Games were definitely an event to remember.  The pressure's definitely on London right now, as these last Olympics will be difficult to top.