You're reading a newsletter from The Indicator from Planet Money. Once a week, we curate our favorite stories and insights on business, finance, economics and why they matter. Subscribe here to get it in your inbox every Friday.
A TILE GAME is giving a boost to Chinese factories. Our very own Jennifer Pak reported that Chinese manufacturers have not had the easiest few years with U.S. tariffs and the war in Iran pushing up costs. Well, the aged game of Mahjong is giving them a surprising boost. That's because it's having a moment in the U.S. and some entrepreneurial citizens in China are enjoying the benefits. Mahjong sets can sell for like $300-$400 in the States … and want to know how much they cost to make? ~$30. One businessman said he used to make the game primarily for Chinese consumers. Now, every set is exported to the U.S.
People playing the centuries-old game Mahjong in San Francisco, California.…