Beijing bans officials' alcohol, cigarettes, and luxury meals

Chinese officials are now banned from consuming alcohol, cigarettes, and luxury meals at official gatherings, a move aimed at promoting frugality. The updated regulations, building on a 2013 code, also prohibit elaborate decorations and extravagant equipment purchases. This follows a recent incident where a government official died from excessive drinking at a seminar on frugality. President Xi Jinping is leading the crackdown on extravagance, with a focus on curbing corruption and promoting thrift within the party, as a response to economic challenges.