The impact of Russian sanctions on the European automotive industry continues to grow. Manufacturers with a strong presence in the region are already struggling to cope with the low availability of parts, as import-export rates squeeze Russia's material supply and inflate component costs. The conflict has damaged manufacturers' confidence not only in the Russian automotive industry but also in the industry's capacity to produce and export vehicles efficiently.

Stories of desperation are emerging in Shanghai as the city enters its third day of strict lockdown, with increasingly widespread reports of residents being unable to access food, medicine and other essentials.

The city’s Covid lockdown was extended indefinitely earlier this week after staggered restrictions failed to contain infections. City officials had promised the staggered lockdown would end on 5 April, leaving many residents of the Chinese megacity unprepared to be indefinitely housebound.