China has become the world’s second-largest economy, a result of more than forty years of relentless growth. During this period, over eight hundred million people have been lifted out of poverty. However, the good times may be coming to an end as the capital that has financed China’s growth is running out, the energy that has powered its manufacturing is becoming more expensive, and the runaway growth of its property market has suffered a devastating crash. China’s economy is facing the most ominous challenges since the great boom. Nevertheless, China is the main trading partner for more than one hundred and twenty countries, meaning that troubles in the Middle Kingdom could affect and will affect everyone.
