China's ruling Communist Party has ordered officials to reduce government waste with a range of new rules: Expensive alcohol, cigarettes and gourmet dishes can no longer be offered at work-related meals; guests should not be seen off at airports; and conferences will no longer feature lavish flower arrangements.
As China faces economic headwinds — from a continued trade war with the United States and slower growth at home — it has ordered officials to tighten their belts and "lead the way in living a frugal life."
Austerity guidelines issued by the State Council, the equivalent of the country's cabinet, detailed how government funds should be used for an array of expenses including travel and office space. (Furniture should be used for as long as possible.)
"Practicing thrift and opposing waste are the glorious tradition and fine style of our party," the official People's Daily said Monday in an article hailing the regulations, which were released the previous day. An editorial in the Paper, a Shanghai outlet, said the campaign would help create a culture in which "waste is seen as shameful and frugality as honorable."
Read more at The Washington Post
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