NOTE: The news reports below are not in chronological order. There is often a time lag in their reaching the US and in gaining our attention. These reports reflect the opinions of a variety of news sources.
Kim Jong Un to Visit China / August 28, 2025
North Korea’s leader is set to travel to China next week to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII, continuing a history of high-profile visits between Pyongyang and Beijing.
Has China become a main guarantor of the post-war order? / August 28, 2025
After WWII: Experts say the country’s wartime sacrifice makes it a steward, not a disruptor, of the international system
Russian and Chinese submarines join forces / August 28, 2025
Mission and choice of vessels reflect the deepening military coordination between the armed forces of the two countries in the Pacific.
Chinese Hacking Campaign / August 28, 2025
According to an advisory issued by the FBI, allies in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing arrangement and other agencies across the world, a Chinese government hacking group has hit 200 American organizations and 80 countries.
Hypersonic Weapons Race / August 23, 2025
Reports suggest China and Russia have surged ahead of the U.S. in hypersonic missile technology, with capabilities that could evade current missile defenses.
New Drone Boat Spotted / August 24, 2025
Footage from Victory Day parade rehearsals in China revealed a stealthy uncrewed surface vessel, hinting at naval modernization.
Show of Force in Disputed Waters / August 22, 2025
China conducted military displays in contested maritime zones following a recent collision involving a coast guard vessel.
Stock Market Milestone / August 25, 2025
AI chipmaker Cambricon overtook liquor giant Moutai as China’s most expensive stock by market value.
Floating Wind Power Innovation / August 25, 2025
Chinese engineers unveiled airborne wind power systems designed for disaster relief and remote locations.
Rare Earth Supply Concerns / August 27, 2025
Analysts discussed global dependence on China for rare earth elements critical to electronics and defense.
Yang Lanlan Mystery / August 28, 2025
A 23-year-old Chinese-Australian woman’s identity has drawn intense online scrutiny, with conflicting reports about her existence.
Hong Kong Youth ‘Patriotic Education’ Base / August 22, 2025
Beijing announced the first such base for Hong Kong and Macau youth, prompting criticism from pro-democracy voices.
Chinese Students in U.S. / August 28, 2025
Reports emerged of some Chinese students being interrogated for hours upon arrival in the U.S., drawing a response from China’s Foreign Ministry.
Fatal Bridge Collapse in Northwestern China / August 22, 2025
A bridge under construction collapsed into the Yellow River in northwest China, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 individuals, with four others reported missing, according to state media reports.
China’s Growing Nuclear Arsenal / August 21, 2025
A Reuters special report reveals that China is rapidly expanding both its conventional and nuclear military capabilities, signaling a substantial bolstering of its defense forces.
China Builds World's Largest Solar Farm on Tibetan Plateau / August 21, 2025
China is rapidly constructing what it claims will be the world’s largest solar farm, spanning 610 square kilometers—roughly the size of Chicago. The project aims to help the country meet its carbon neutrality targets by 2060. In the first half of 2025, China installed 212 GW of solar power, exceeding the total solar capacity of the U.S. as of the end of 2024. While solar is becoming China’s leading clean energy source, challenges remain, such as coal dependency and the need for grid upgrades to transmit energy efficiently from western regions to industrial eastern areas.
Boeing Eyes Huge Deal with Chinese Buyers / August 21, 2025
Boeing is reportedly in advanced negotiations to sell up to 500 aircraft to Chinese companies. This massive deal is linked to the broader U.S.–China trade relationship and may hinge on progress in ongoing trade talks. Boeing currently has over 100 undelivered aircraft to Chinese clients, and recent easing of tensions allowed delivery resumption.
China Responds to Canadian Canola Tariffs / August 21, 2025
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe will visit China to discuss recently imposed 75.8% anti-dumping tariffs on Canadian canola seeds. With China being Canada’s largest canola market, the tariffs threaten nearly C$5 billion in trade from 2024. The premier emphasized collaboration with the federal government to support affected farmers and mentioned hopes for further diplomatic opportunities before year-end.
Tightened Control Over Rare Earth Minerals / August 22, 2025
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has announced new regulations extending its rare earth supply quota system to include imported materials, tightening control over these strategically vital minerals used across technology and defense sectors.
US-listed Chinese EV Stocks Rising: / August 22, 2025
Shares of Chinese electric vehicle makers Nio and XPeng are climbing, outpacing a slipping Tesla.
Nvidia’s AI Chips Face China Scrutiny: / August 22, 2025
Chinese authorities warned domestic firms against purchasing Nvidia’s AI chips, citing security concerns.
Nationwide AI Restrictions During Exams / August 19, 2025
To prevent cheating, China has enforced a nationwide blackout of AI features (such as photo-based problem solvers) during major exam periods like the gaokao. Tech giants—including Alibaba, Tencent, and ByteDance—implement these restrictions silently. The move reflects the government’s cautious approach to regulating AI in educational settings, prioritizing academic integrity over unfettered tech access.
Xi Jinping’s Rare Visit to Tibet Marks 60 Years of CCP Rule / August 20, 2025
President Xi Jinping made a rare visit to Lhasa, Tibet, to commemorate 60 years since Beijing consolidated control over the region. Official outlets highlighted unity and progress, but critics note continuing suppression of cultural and religious freedoms—especially following past protests and ongoing infrastructure development with possible strategic implications.
Pastor Detained in Zhejiang Amid Religious Crackdown
Who: Pastor Huang Yizi and four other Christians detained by Pingyang public security on June 26. Details: Huang Yizi was formally informed of his arrest in early August, charged with “illegal business operations.” Status: Two of the five have been released on bail; three—including Pastor Huang—remain in custody. This reflects the ongoing trend of authorities using commercial or administrative charges to suppress unregistered Christian groups.
Tracing the Hidden History of Four Beijing Churches / August 13, 2025
Tucked away between shopping malls, state offices, and quiet hutong lanes are four of Beijing’s most famous churches. These centuries-old structures, rebuilt after years of turbulence, tell a layered story of imperial diplomacy, missionary persistence and urban survival. While tourists may flock to the Forbidden City or the Temple of Heaven, few realize that just blocks away stand churches also steeped in history.
Wenzhou: Gospel History / August 11, 2025
Wenzhou has more Christians than any other city in China. Local pastors say the city also has a tendency towards pragmatism and practicality: if something is useful, Wenzhou believers use it — sometimes without stopping to reflect on biblical philosophy.
Walk the Talk: Countering the “Jesus Guys” in Business / August 10, 2025
How can we share the light of Christ beyond the church walls and pulpit—especially in the marketplace? In response to the “Jesus guys” phenomenon, where Christians are seen as failing to live out their faith authentically, Mr. Huang chose a different path of evangelism: offering biblical wisdom to help people navigate real-life challenges.
Shepherding Souls in the Digital Age / August 9, 2025
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping every aspect of society—including the church. In this special issue of the ChinaSource Journal, Where Wisdom Meets Faith, we explore how AI is challenging and transforming Christianity in China and beyond. Rather than offering easy answers, our goal is to equip readers with the theological insight, technical knowledge, and missional courage needed to shepherd souls in the digital age.
⛪ Religious Landscape & Policy Update
Chinese Authorities Fine Pastor and Wife of Largest House Church / July 3, 2025
Pastor Yang Xibo and his wife, Wang Xiaofei—leaders of the Xunsiding Church (the largest underground house church in Xiamen)—have been fined a total of 400,000 yuan (around $55,100) by the authorities for holding unregistered religious gatherings. According to ChinaAid, this fine was doubled on June 28, and the couple has stated publicly that they refuse to pay. This case highlights ongoing tensions around religious freedom and the crackdown on unregistered Christian communities in China.
🚗 Economy & Industry
China’s Economic Slowdown Amid U.S. Tariff Pressures / August 15, 2025
New data shows China's industrial production and retail sales in July marked the slowest growth of the year. Meanwhile, U.S. President Trump announced new tariffs on semiconductors and steel—initially moderate, but set to escalate—which could further dent China’s economic rebound. Despite the slowdown, investment remains ongoing in policy-supported high-tech sectors.
Global Markets Greet U.S.–China Tariff Truce with Optimism / August 15, 2025
Investors welcomed a temporary tariff truce between the U.S. and China, fueling global equity fund inflows to a six-week high—$19.32 billion in the week ending August 13. Tech funds in particular drew significant investment, while bond and precious metal funds also saw strong inflows.
China’s Economic Slowdown Amid U.S. Tariff Pressures / August 15, 2025
New data shows China's industrial production and retail sales in July marked the slowest growth of the year. Meanwhile, U.S. President Trump announced new tariffs on semiconductors and steel—initially moderate, but set to escalate—which could further dent China’s economic rebound. Despite the slowdown, investment remains ongoing in policy-supported high-tech sectors.
Global Markets Greet U.S.–China Tariff Truce with Optimism / August 15, 2025
Investors welcomed a temporary tariff truce between the U.S. and China, fueling global equity fund inflows to a six-week high—$19.32 billion in the week ending August 13. Tech funds in particular drew significant investment, while bond and precious metal funds also saw strong inflows.
🌏 International Relations & Trade
Beijing Denounces Australia’s Espionage Allegations / August 15, 2025
China’s Ministry of State Security accused Australia of fabricating espionage claims against China, following the arrest of a Chinese woman in Canberra over suspected foreign interference. China labeled the allegations politically motivated, criticizing what it described as "Chinaphobia" and spin by Australian intelligence agencies.
Detention of Prominent Chinese Diplomat / August 15, 2025
China has detained Liu Jianchao, a senior diplomat expected to be a candidate for foreign minister, shortly after his return from an overseas assignment in late July 2025. Liu had led the Communist Party’s International Department and played a critical role in China–U.S. relations. His detention is the highest-profile since the 2023 fall of Qin Gang and underscores President Xi Jinping’s emphasis on political loyalty.
Illicit Gold Mining Linked to Chinese Syndicates / August 12, 2025
A Washington Post investigation uncovered extensive illegal gold mining operations by Chinese syndicates across the Global South—particularly in Indonesia. These unlicensed operations, often backed by hazardous chemicals like cyanide, are damaging the environment and are driven by China's aim to bolster its gold reserves as protection against dollar volatility. The illicit trade is estimated at over $30 billion annually, with enforcement efforts often stymied by corruption.
🚢 Military & Security Incidents
Clash at the UN Over the Panama Canal / August 11, 2025
At a UN Security Council session focusing on maritime security, diplomatic tensions flared between the U.S. and China concerning influence over the Panama Canal. The U.S. raised fears about China's growing control and influence, while China defended its position by affirming respect for Panama’s sovereignty and accusing the U.S. of destabilizing maritime norms.
⛪ Religious Landscape & Policy Update
Chinese Authorities Fine Pastor and Wife of Largest House Church / July 3, 2025
Pastor Yang Xibo and his wife, Wang Xiaofei—leaders of the Xunsiding Church (the largest underground house church in Xiamen)—have been fined a total of 400,000 yuan (around $55,100) by the authorities for holding unregistered religious gatherings. According to ChinaAid, this fine was doubled on June 28, and the couple has stated publicly that they refuse to pay. This case highlights ongoing tensions around religious freedom and the crackdown on unregistered Christian communities in China.
📉 Economy & Employment
Deadly Floods in Northern China / July 30,2025
Northern China, including Beijing and Hebei, experienced devastating flooding from July 23 to 29, killing dozens and displacing tens of thousands. In Miyun District alone, more than 130 rural villages were isolated. A nursing home tragedy claimed 31 elderly lives after being omitted from evacuation plans.
Cybersecurity Showdown Over Nvidia Chips / July 31,2025
On July 31, China's cyberspace regulator summoned Nvidia over alleged “backdoor” security risks in H20 chips recently reintroduced into the Chinese market. Nvidia denied the claims, highlighting broader tensions in U.S.–China tech and AI competition.
Trade Talks Continue to Avoid Tariff Spike / July 31,2025
In late July, officials from China and the U.S. met in Stockholm to extend a temporary trade truce before the August 12 tariff deadline. Discussions centered on ensuring economic stability and potentially laying groundwork for a future Trump‑Xi summit.AP News+3Reuters+3AP News+3
Macau Dissident Arrested Under National Security Law / August 1,2025
A former pro‑democracy legislator in Macau, Au Kam San, was arrested under China’s national security law for alleged “collusion with foreign forces,” marking a crackdown similar to patterns seen in Hong Kong.
China Cracks Down on Counterfeit Pop Mart Toys / July 30,2025
Authorities intensified enforcement against counterfeit Labubu dolls (a cultural export from Pop Mart), seizing thousands of fake units to protect IP and strengthen China’s cultural branding.
Manufacturing Contracts as Export Orders Fall / July 31,2025
China’s manufacturing sector is in contraction: July’s S&P Global PMI fell sharply to 49.5, down from 50.4 in June, signaling shrinking output and declining export orders for four consecutive months. Businesses are cutting production and headcount amid weak global demand.
Policy Promises and Trade Tensions / July 31,2025
After unproductive trade talks with the U.S., Chinese leaders pledged support to affected exporters via export rebates, special financing, and free-trade zones. Yet no major policy reforms were announced. Growth remains weak (estimated at ~5.2% in Q2), leaving trade-dependent industries vulnerable AP News.
👥 Social & Workforce Challenges
Youth Unemployment Hits Record Levels / July 21,2025
China’s youth unemployment rate (ages 16–24, excluding students) surged to 17.1% in July, marking the highest rate so far in 2025. This is partly attributed to heightened competition among nearly 12 million recent graduates and regulatory disruptions to tech and education sectors. The official overall urban unemployment rate also ticked up slightly to 5.2%.
Cultural Nostalgia Signals Economic Discontent / August 1,2025
A wave of nostalgic trends on Chinese social platforms—nostalgic aesthetics and fashion from the early 2000s—is being used as a subtle form of protest against the current stagnant economy. Young people are using these feelings of nostalgia to critique sluggish consumption and limited opportunities indirectly.
🧭 Other Social Issues
Prominent Monk Investigated Again / July 28,2025
The abbot of Shaolin Temple, Shi Yongxin, is back in scrutiny over allegations involving embezzlement and sexual misconduct. The Buddhist Association of China revoked his ordination amid widespread criticism of his luxurious lifestyle and controversial use of Shaolin commercial brands.