China's CPI up 0.8 pct in December

China's consumer price index (CPI), a main gauge of inflation, rose 0.8 percent year on year in December, official data showed Friday.

The core CPI, which excludes food and energy prices, was up 1.2 percent year on year in December, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics.

In urban areas, the CPI rose by 0.9 percent, while in rural regions, it increased by 0.6 percent. Food prices saw a rise of 1.1 percent, and non-food prices went up by 0.8 percent.

Meanwhile, consumer goods prices rose by 1.0 percent, and service prices increased by 0.6 percent year on year, according to the NBS.

On a monthly basis, the CPI rose 0.2 percent in December, following a 0.1-percent decrease in November.

The urban figure rose by 0.2 percent, while the figure in rural areas also increased by 0.2 percent. Food prices rose by 0.3 percent, and non-food prices climbed by 0.1 percent over last month.

Comparing with those of November, consumer goods prices increased by 0.3 percent, while service prices remained flat, statistics showed.

In 2025, the CPI stayed flat compared to last year, the data showed.

China Media Group (CMG), the country's flagship broadcaster, unveiled its 2026 flagship drama lineup in Beijing on Friday.

CMG will broadcast 55 major TV series and three short dramas ranging from historical epics to contemporary storylines that reflect everyday life, social change, and the spirit of the times.

The new lineup will align natural narrative and creative innovation with the country's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), continuously amplify the voice of mainstream values, and continue promoting the deep integration of film and television with cultural tourism, according to CMG.