Chinese car brands are making a breathtaking breakthrough in Romania.They entered the market in 2023, but the breakthrough and explosive growth are expected in 2024 and 2025. recently published figures show that in 2025, the number of new Chinese cars sold nearly tripled compared to the previous year, while the total car market grew by only about 4 percent. According to data cited by Europa Libera, while approximately 2,200 cars were registered in 2024, nearly 6,000 cars belonging to Chinese-made or Chinese-owned brands were put on the road in Romania in 2025. In two years, the market share of Chinese cars has also increased dramatically: at the beginning of 2024, only about two out of every thousand new cars were chinese, but by December 2025, that number had risen to 65.
Two well-known Chinese car brands are driving the growth. One is MG, which, despite the British name, is owned by the Chinese state-backed SAIC Motor, and leads the sales list among Chinese car brands present in Romania. MG is considered the strongest and most balanced player because its full hybrid and plug-in hybrid models are not only cheaper than most European and Japanese rivals, but in some cases offer a better price-performance ratio than Dacia, while offering more powerful powertrains.
the conflict in Sudan between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues as of January 16, 2026, wiht ongoing fighting, a severe humanitarian crisis, and stalled peace negotiations. While no definitive resolution has been reached, recent developments indicate a shift in international pressure and a growing focus on accountability for war crimes.
The Ongoing Conflict Between SAF and RSF
Table of Contents
The conflict in Sudan is a direct result of a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the rapid Support Forces, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti). Fighting erupted on April 15, 2023, and has continued despite numerous ceasefire attempts.
The conflict initially centered around Khartoum and Darfur, but has as spread to other regions. Both sides have been accused of widespread human rights abuses,including targeting civilians,sexual violence,and looting. The RSF has been notably criticized for its actions in Darfur, with reports of ethnically motivated violence.
Example: In December 2025, the United Nations reported that over 8.2 million people have been displaced within Sudan and across its borders due to the conflict. UNHCR – Sudan Emergency
Key Figures and organizations
- general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan: Commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces.
- General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (hemedti): Commander of the Rapid Support Forces.
- Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF): The national army of Sudan.
- Rapid Support Forces (RSF): A paramilitary group in Sudan.
- Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD): Regional bloc leading mediation efforts. IGAD Official Website
- United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in sudan (UNITAMS): UN mission tasked with supporting Sudan’s transition.UNITAMS Official Website
Humanitarian Crisis and Displacement
The conflict has triggered a catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Sudan, with millions facing starvation, disease, and displacement. Access to essential services, including healthcare and education, has been severely disrupted.
The World Food Program (WFP) estimates that over 18 million people – more than 37% of Sudan’s population – are facing acute hunger. The collapse of the healthcare system has led to outbreaks of preventable diseases,such as cholera and measles. The situation is particularly dire in Darfur, where communities have been cut off from aid for months.
Example: The WFP reported in January 2026 that it requires $700 million to provide food assistance to vulnerable populations in Sudan for the next six months. WFP – Sudan
international Response and Peace Efforts
The international community has condemned the violence in Sudan and called for a ceasefire and a return to civilian rule. However, efforts to mediate a lasting peace agreement have so far failed.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has been leading regional mediation efforts, but talks have stalled due to disagreements between the SAF and the RSF.The United states, the united Kingdom, and other countries have imposed sanctions on individuals and entities linked to the conflict. In late 2025, the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced it was opening a formal investigation into alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Darfur.
Example: On January 10, 2026, the U.S. Treasury Department announced new sanctions targeting individuals and entities facilitating the conflict in Sudan. U.S. Treasury – Sudan Sanctions
Recent Developments (as of January 16, 2026)
Recent reports indicate increased international pressure on both the SAF and the RSF to end the fighting and engage in meaningful negotiations. The ICC investigation is gaining momentum, with investigators collecting evidence of alleged atrocities. There is also growing concern about the potential for the conflict to destabilize the wider region.
moreover, a new initiative led by the African union, in collaboration with IGAD and the UN, is attempting to revive peace talks.This initiative focuses on a phased approach to security arrangements and power-sharing, with a strong emphasis on accountability for human rights violations. However, the SAF and RSF have yet to publicly commit to participating in these talks.
Example: the African Union issued a statement on January 15, 2026, outlining the key principles of its new peace initiative for Sudan. African Union – Sudan Peace Initiative
