The Consumer Sentiment Index for the U.S., published by the University of Michigan, dropped sharply in March to 57.9 from February's 64.7, marking its lowest level since November 2022.
The report, which was released Friday, indicates that sentiment has declined for a third consecutive month, with numerous consumers attributing this drop to uncertainty surrounding government policies and other economic factors.
Additionally, rapid shifts in economic policies have compounded difficulties for consumers in planning for the future, regardless of their policy preferences.
The report also highlighted key concerns contributing to the decline in sentiment, including ongoing tariff policies, a weakening stock market, and persistent inflation worries.
Media outlets, such as Reuters and The Wall Street Journal, also reaffirmed the report's findings.
US Consumer Sentiment Index plunges to lowest since November 2022
A Chinese medical team left China on Saturday heading for Ethiopia, where they will offer technological assistance and support to talent development in the country's healthcare sector over the next 12 months.
The 14-member team includes experts in clinical medicine, medical technology, hospital administration, and logistical support.
Mainly selected from the First Hospital Affiliated to the Army Medical University (AMU) in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, the team members possess extensive experience in medical practice and management.
During the mission, the experts will help the country's military hospitals to enhance medical service capacity, promote the application of new technologies, strengthen hospital operations, train professional personnel, and support the establishment of healthcare management systems, thereby contributing to the improvement of local medical services.
"I feel deeply honored by this mission, and I'm fully aware of the responsibility it carries. We are committed to carrying forward the spirit of China's overseas medical teams, which features tenacity, dedication, commitment to saving lives, and love that knows no borders, and will apply our skills for the benefit of the Ethiopian military and civilians," said team member Guo Hao from the AMU.
Since 2015, the AMU hospital has dispatched 11 batches totaling more than 100 medical experts to Ethiopia.
Their efforts gave strong support to achieving notable progress in medical facility construction, and technological and talent development in the country's healthcare sector.
China sends 11th group of medical experts to Ethiopia
