China censors economist's speech on economic decline

Gao elaborated on his argument by noting that regions with younger populations have experienced poorer economic performance since the end of the zero-COVID policy in December 2022, compared to areas with older populations.

Internet censors have removed a viral speech by Gao Shanwen, a prominent Chinese economist, who warned that the lack of opportunities for young people is significantly hindering economic growth, which he claimed has been overstated in recent years, as per Radio Free Asia.

Speaking at an investor conference in Shenzhen, Gao, chief economist at SDIC Securities, highlighted that instead of pursuing promising careers and spending money in the economy, young people in China are cutting back and "turning off the lights and eating noodles," a phrase used to describe those in financial distress due to failed investments Radio Free Asia reported.