Germany holds state elections on Sept 20 in Mecklenburg‑Western Pomerania and Berlin; political observers and media widely view the contests as a barometer for the federal government, which is under pressure amid falling support for mainstream parties and rising influence of the far‑right.

Chancellor Merz said today's two state election results were markedly different.

Hebei statistical bureau said industrial value added of enterprises above designated size rose 5.0% YoY in Jan–Aug. By sector: mining +2.5% YoY, manufacturing +5.8%, power/heat/gas and water supply +2.6%. By ownership: state-controlled +0.6%, joint-stock +4.8%, foreign/HK-Macau/Taiwan-funded +9.5%, private +7.4%. By firm size: large +4.5%, medium +3.6%, small +7.1%. Of 40 major industries tracked, 28 (70.0%) expanded; strongest growth seen in instrument manufacturing +49.3%, nonferrous metal mining +22.8%, pharmaceuticals +14.6%, rail/ship/aerospace & other transport equipment +10.5%, and auto manufacturing +8.7%.