China's bank regulator told lenders Friday to forgive debts owed by earthquake survivors who lack insurance in an effort to help revive the shattered local economy.

NAPANEE, ONT.–Along the main strip of this small town stands a red-brick plant that predates the zipper, the telephone, insulin and all things Canadian, including Canada itself.

'The year 2008 is likely to be the most difficult time for China's economy," said Premier Wen Jiabao in March at a press conference after the annual full session of China's top legislature. So far, the premier's prediction has proven accurate.

In perhaps the first, and largest, fallout from the financial crisis, glass-making group Bohemia Crystalex and Porcela Plus entered bankruptcy proceedings Sept. 22.

China's fireworks industry provides 98 percent of America's overall needs, and 80 percent of the pyrotechnics needed for professional displays. But the U.S. fireworks business stands to lose $25 million to $30 million this year because of lost orders, s