CHINA: Beijing will lift a ban on direct sales on Dec. 1, the government stated, clearing the way for such companies as Avon Products Inc. to expand into its booming market for cosmetics and other consumer products. China banned direct sales in 1998, saying it was difficult for consumers to tell the difference between sales networks and fraudulent pyramid schemes. The ban was a major setback for Avon, Amway Corp. and other companies that depend on networks of independent salespeople. Avon, Amwa...