Overview
- Authorities said the explosion at a fireworks plant in Liuyang on Monday killed at least 26 people and injured 61.
- Roughly 500 rescuers set up a three-kilometre safety zone and evacuated nearby residents because two black-powder stores sat close to the blast site.
- Police detained company managers as investigators search for the cause, which officials have not yet identified.
- President Xi Jinping urged full treatment for the injured, a thorough search for any missing, tougher safety checks, and accountability for those responsible.
- Liuyang makes about 60% of fireworks sold in China and 70% of exports, so new inspections could slow factory output and delay shipments worldwide.