Xi Jinping has ordered an urgent investigation after a devastating explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, Hunan Province, killed at least 26 people and injured 61. The blast at the Huasheng plant occurred on 4 May, causing widespread destruction in nearby buildings and prompting the evacuation of surrounding areas due to fears of further explosions. Nearly five hundred emergency personnel were deployed as rescue efforts continued, with an unknown number of people still unaccounted for. Xi called for those responsible to be held accountable and urged a nationwide review of workplace safety standards. Prime minister Li Qiang also emphasised the need to learn lessons from the disaster. Liuyang, a major hub responsible for about 70% of China’s fireworks exports and 60% of the domestic market, has experienced deadly incidents before, raising ongoing concerns about industrial safety enforcement.