News about China that caught our eye

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.

Humanoid Robots Are Poised to March into the Real World / April 11, 2025

In China, excitement about the potential of humanoid robots soared after the Lunar New Year’s Eve, when 16 of Unitree Robotics’ general-purpose robots appeared at the Spring Festival Gala. Performing a tightly choreographed Chinese folk dance alongside human dancers, the robots — dressed in traditional floral-patterned cotton jackets and spinning red handkerchiefs — wowed more than a billion viewers with their synchronized movements (Sixth Tone).

Forget tariffs — Beijing is already choking off US exports on the sly / April 12, 2025

China’s toolkit in the US-China trade war includes simply blocking imports of various goods from the US, especially those produced by manufacturers that have been supportive of the Trump Administration.  China has blocked US imports of beef, produce like soybeans, and natural gas.  But it may be of more concern that China has also blocked its own exports of critical minerals to the US (Politico).

China put steep tariffs on U.S. exports. Farmers are worried / April 12, 2025

American farmers are concerned about how the tariff trade war will affect their bottom line if there isn’t a settlement reached between the US and China, as well as the myriad of other countries in the Trump Administration’s trade crosshairs.  However, during his first term, Trump supported farmers with government aid, and he successfully renegotiated the USMCA, so some farmers are hopeful he can do the same this time around (NPR).

Trump tariffs on China will soon bring ‘irreversible’ damage to many American businesses / April 12, 2025

Uncertainty about the seemingly daily change in tariffs and the complicated variety of shipping contracts and port policies are on the minds of everyone in the global supply chain, but small US businesses may not be able to withstand the higher costs or the lack of materials needed for their businesses to survive (CNBC).

‘Invasion’ barges, subsea cable cutters & surprise naval drills: China is testing Donald Trump / April 13, 2025

China has been flexing its muscles in the South China Sea and even as far as Australia lately, not just to keep its neighbors on alert, but to send a message to President Trump in the midst of the current trade war.  China could use military threats in its arsenal of trade negotiations with the US, but that puts US allies in the region on alert—would the US give up an ally’s safety for its own purposes (The Guardian)?

China orders its airlines to stop accepting deliveries of Boeing jets / April 15, 2025

China’s economy enjoyed a more prosperous first quarter in 2025 in many sectors, but US President Trump’s tariff hikes are likely to threaten up to 20 million jobs in China as exports from China remain in China.  Estimates for hiring plans in March dropped significantly.  Increasing automation in China will also rob more jobs from Chinese workers (Yahoo Finance!).

China orders its airlines to stop accepting deliveries of Boeing jets / April 15, 2025

As China raised its tariffs on US imports to 125%, the Chinese government also ordered its domestic airlines to stop receiving deliveries of new planes from US-based Boeing, as well as aircraft parts from US manufacturers.  The extra tariff costs make them unaffordable.  About ten planes were scheduled to be delivered this month after over 100 planes were delivered in the first quarter of this year (CBS News).

China’s Xi Jinping says there are no winners in a tariff war as he visits Southeast Asia / April 14, 2025

Chinese President Xi Jinping touted his strong relationship with Vietnam as he began a tour of Southeast Asian nations this week.  He promoted China as a stable, reliable partner in trade compared with President Trump’s current enigmatic maneuvers to secure trade agreements favorable to the US economy (AP News).

The China-US Trade War Is in Full Swing / April 9, 2025

Beyond the economics, there’s also a psychological dimension to the trade war that is fueling the escalation cycle. Unlike other countries that have shown a willingness to negotiate with Trump – like Vietnam, Japan, and India – China is locked in a global rivalry with the United States. Each side views the other with extreme suspicion, and that makes any compromise unlikely. Instead, both the United States and China have accused each other of bullying behavior, adding an emotive component to the trade war that will make it exceedingly difficult for either Trump or Xi Jinping to back down (The Diplomat).

China's Commerce Ministry Says It Maintains Communication with US / April 17, 2025

While it may appear that the US and China are not on speaking terms, China’s Commerce Ministry did verify that it has been in regular contact with its counterparts in the Trump Administration.  Blaine Holt, a former military rep to NATO, states that China’s economy is in much worse trouble than people realize.  Some workers haven’t been paid in months, factories are closing, which may push the government into a corner where acting out militarily could be seen as its only option (Newsmax).

China lashes out, says 'peasants in the United States' will suffer from trade war / April 15, 2025

Xia Baolong, the director of China's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, borrowed from US Vice President JD Vance’s complaint that, for decades, the US has been going into debt by buying goods made by Chinese peasants, retorting that US peasants should “wail in front of 5000 years of Chinese civilization.”  Since a pro-democratic protest in Hong Kong in 2019, China has put pro-China sympathetic leaders into positions of power on the once-autonomous island (Fox Business).

Trump wants to make a deal with China. Here’s how he’s trying to make that happen / April 16, 2025

US President Trump hopes to make trade deals with many countries around the world, especially in Asia, so that the newly created bloc isolates China, drawing it into negotiations, too.  But China may be prepared for that strategy, and President Xi’s power over his own people may give him more time to endure austerity than US citizens might give Trump (Politico).

Did Trump really just levy a 245% tariff on China? / April 17, 2025

While it would seem that tariffs as high as 145% were extreme, rumors that President Trump plans to strike back at China with a 245% tariff are incorrect.  The 245% number is an accumulation of tariffs going back to Trump’s first term and applies to just two items: syringes and electric vehicles (CBC News).

Aboard the 'silver trains', China's retirees do their bit to offset Trump's tariffs / April 16, 2025

To spur the economy into action, the Chinese government is encouraging retirees to travel on “silver trains” that take retirees, and their hard-earned savings, on a luxurious train ride to areas of China that they normally would not see.  Many routes stop at economically struggling regions that need the financial support retirees bring with them (BBC).

Religious Activities by Foreigners in China: New Restrictions from May 1 / April 8, 2025

The Chinese State Administration for Religious Affairs released what it calls “Order #23” on April 1st, an updated regulation that puts more strict measures on religious foreigners who are not part of any of the “approved” religious organizations when they come to China.  The regulation will make it more difficult for such foreigners to enter China for religious purposes (Bitter Winter).

Expanding the Notion of Xie Jiao in China: Now Even Reformed Christians Are “Cultists” / March 27, 2025

Article 300 in China’s criminal code English translation describes “Xie Jiao” as “evil cults,” but lately, the term has been expanded by local Chinese governments to include even Reformed Christian house churches.  A house church in Fuyang city in China has been under scrutiny and harassment from the local government for some years now, but recently, two of its members were charged under Article 300 “for being active in a xie jiao (Bitter Winter).  

China Appeals for Calm, Readies Plans to Counter Trump’s Tariffs / April 7, 2025

An editorial in Chinese government’s mouthpiece, the People’s Daily, declared that the government has a vast supply of strategies to counter President Trump’s trade war.  Having dealt with tariffs since Trump’s first term eight years ago, the Chinese government has learned how to deal with the matter (Yahoo Finance).

China is not backing down from Trump's tariff war. What next? / April 8, 2025

The rapid pace of President Trump’s tariff escalation has rattled global markets and economies, but China also refuses to flinch, vowing to not back off.  Doing so would suggest weakness on China’s part. China has weakened its currency to bear some of the brunt of the tariffs, and it can do so again.  China also has other means to respond if it decides to walk past the negotiating table (BBC).

Trump's sweeping new tariffs in effect, including 104% on goods from China / April 9, 2025

Increased tariffs from the Trump Administration took effect on Wednesday this week, hitting China the hardest with additional tariffs that add up to 104% so far.  The EU and Canada also plan retaliatory tariffs.  Initially, East Asian stock markets were mixed upon first impact of the tariffs going into effect.  China stated it has enough reserves to see the trade war through (CBS News).

Stocks surge after 90-day pause announced for most countries / April 9, 2025

In another example of “expect the unexpected,” President Trump announced a delay in the implementation of new tariffs for 75 countries, but tariffs against China would rise higher again to 125%.  China’s retaliatory tariffs against US exports currently stand at 84%.  Other countries have called for negotiations with the Trump Administration (NBC News).

Why Trump is hitting China on trade - and what might happen next / April 10, 2025

President Trump’s tariff war has been a strategy to reset global trade to benefit the American economy, a goal that Trump had to leave unfinished after his first term.  Realistically, Trump has wanted to overhaul the trade environment for decades, but China’s economy has grown into the global market so much that it is unwilling to bend to Trump’s wishes.  The standoff may get ugly (BBC).  

China channels Mao in trade war with a vow for 'complete victory' over the U.S. / April 10, 2025

Mao Ning, the Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson, declared in a post on X on Friday that China would not back down in the face of President Trump’s trade war that has focused on China this week.  Her post included a 1953 video of Mao Zedong determined speech that China would continue fighting until “China’s complete victory.”  China’s history of humiliation by foreign powers underlies its defiance to Trump’s “bullying.”  The two sides may continue to hurt one another and themselves before they come to the table (NBC News).  

Trump was touting his Panama victory. Then China stepped in / April 9, 2025

CK Hutchison, the Hong Kong business that owns two ports on either side of the Panama Canal, was scheduled to secure the sale of the two ports to a consortium of businesses led by Blackrock on April 2nd, but Chinese regulators have stepped in to review the transaction, calling it a threat to China’s national interests.  China may use the sale as collateral in the tariff trade war (NBC News).

Meta Whistleblower to Tell Congress That Company Aided China in AI Race / April 9, 2025

A former Meta director of global public policy, Sarah Wynn-Williams, testified before Congress on Tuesday that the leadership of Meta actually collaborated with China to advance its AI technology to out-compete US companies, undermining US national security and interests.  China evidently used the technology for military purposes.  Meta denies the accusations (Yahoo Finance).

Jingjiao: The first Christian Church in China / April 3, 2025

Dr. Glen Thompson, a former professor of Asia Lutheran Seminary, has published a fascinating accounting of Christian missionaries bringing the message of the Christian faith along the Silk Road to eventually establish a Christian church in China during the Tang dynasty some time before 781 A.D., when a stele was erected in Chang’an describing the “Luminous Teaching.”  The book is available on Amazon.

Five Key Trends That Shaped Christianity in China in 2024 / March 25, 2025

Churches grow and develop, with its needs, achievements, desires and goals changing as it matures.  A journalist documents the growth of the Chinese Church, stating that now, there are five trends that the Church in China is focusing on as it becomes more independent of its “Western” parents (China Christian Daily).

China Connection Emerges In Bangkok Skyscraper That Collapsed During Quake / March 30, 2025

A 33-story high rise in Bangkok, Thailand, that collapsed during an earthquake last Friday in Myanmar was partially funded by a Chinese company called China Railway Number 10 Ltd.  Apparently, it was the only high-rise under construction in Bangkok that collapsed.  An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the collapse (NDTV).

Hegseth announces plan for US command upgrades in Japan to deter China / March 30, 2025

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth was in Japan on Sunday, praising the US ally for its partnership with the US, especially in its deterrence of Chinese aggression in the region.  Hegseth announced a plan to upgrade the military command in Japan both in personnel and military equipment and weapons (Fox News).

China holds major war games around Taiwan as U.S. boosts ties with Japan / April 1, 2025

After U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth held talks with Japan to increase the military cooperation between the two countries, China responded with large military exercises around Taiwan.  China is also irritated by Taiwan’s President, Lai Ching-te, who strongly supports Taiwan’s independence (CBS News).

China state media blasts CK Hutchison's Panama port deal in soon-deleted post / March 29, 2025

A social media account linked to China’s CCTV harshly criticized Hong Kong’s CK Hutchison’s plans to sell two ports near the Panama Canal to a US based BlackRock group, but the post was deleted minutes after it had appeared online.  The post described the deal as similar to handing a knife to an opponent (CNA).

US, China raise the stakes in Panama Canal ports row / March 29, 2025

The potential sail of two ports near the Panama Canal has drawn global shipping ports into politics as they become valuable assets for potential trade and military wars, although most countries have laws that prohibit discrimination depending on a ship’s national status.  China’s Belt and Road Initiative, nevertheless, has strengthened Beijing’s global presence access to supplies and markets (Yahoo News).

South Korea, China, Japan agree to promote regional trade as Trump tariffs loom / March 30, 2025

After a five-year hiatus, trade ministers from Japan, South Korea and China held a dialogue and pledged to promote regional and global trade as part of the RCEP (the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) a 15-nation trade conglomerate.  The three nations are major trade partners with the US and are bracing for the effects of Trump’s tariff strategy (Reuters).

China's biggest state banks to raise $71.6 bln to boost capital / March 30, 2025

With support from the Chinese government, China’s four biggest banks announced a plan to raise $71.6 billion through investments and the selling of shares.  China’s banks have struggled to be profitable in the sluggish economy over the last few years.  Expected cuts to key interest rates this year will add further pressure (Reuters).

Trump’s tariffs threaten to escalate a trade war. China wants to talk, but it’s ready to fight / March 31, 2025

President Trump’s use of tariffs and uncertainty has global markets on edge, especially between the US and China.  But China has learned from Trump’s first term as president, so now it has more tools in its toolbox to be a greater challenge to Trump’s trade strategy, and it is prepared to use them (CNN).

For China and US Inc, Trump's trade war feels much worse this time / March 30,  2025

President Trump’s first term tariff war affected the Chinese economy with pressure on profit margins and a loss of 3.5 million jobs.  Now, Chinese manufacturers can’t cut their prices any further without taking a loss, and local governments have little revenue to support local industries with subsidies, so many factories may close.  Some US business owners say it is impossible to move their supply chain to the US (Reuters).

China’s factory activity growth at 1-year high, survey shows, as stimulus measures kick in / March 30, 2025

PMI (Purchasing Managers’ Index) figures improved in March as manufacturing activity increased, pushing the rate a little higher over the 50-point threshold between expansion and contraction.  The PMI rate was 50.2 in February and 50.5 in March.  Other figures, except employment, showed promise that recent government stimulus measures were improving the economy (CNBC).

In the engine room of China's economy Trump's tariffs are already beginning to bite / April 2, 2025

It is common knowledge that China’s economy has been struggling since the pandemic, but even before that, President Donald Trump’s first-term tariffs against China did have a negative effect on China’s economy even before the pandemic.  Now, a second round of tariffs is hitting even harder on Chinese small businesses that have few options to escape the tariffs’ effects (Sky News).

Hang Seng tech index slides into correction territory after strong rally / March 31, 2025

After government stimulus measures inspired a slight rebound in Chinese stocks since last September, and DeepSeek’s surprising success in the AI market in January, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng tech index hit a wall on Monday, declining 3% on Monday, and 12% from a March 18th high.  While the drop could be the sign of a “false rally,” analysts say that the correction is normal (CNBC).

China urges U.S. to ‘immediately’ cancel reciprocal tariffs, vows countermeasures / April 3, 2025

China’s Ministry of Commerce strongly urged US President Trump to cancel his tariff war against China while stating that China has its own countermeasures if he doesn’t bring the shocking tariffs to an end.  Other countries are expressing their displeasure as well.  Time will tell if it gets any of them to Trump’s bargaining table (CNBC).

China Restricts Companies from Investing in US as Tensions Rise / April 2, 2025

China’s government has put a hold on the approval process for Chinese investors and companies who want to invest in US companies, possibly giving China a bargaining chip as it grapples with Trump’s most recent tariff volley.  This new suspension may block Chinese businesses from transferring their production to the US to avoid the tariffs (Yahoo Finance).

Canada updates travel advisories for U.S., China after recent tensions / March 22, 2025

In response to events occurring in both the US and China, the Canadian government is advising its citizens to follow certain procedures to avoid trouble with either foreign government.  Dual-citizen Chinese-Canadian citizens should register as Canadians when traveling to China, as China does not recognize dual citizenship, and travelers to the US should register with the US government if they stay longer than 30 days in the US (CBC).

Three years after China Eastern plane crash, regulator has not released report / March 23, 2025

It’s been three years since a passenger plane crashed in the Guangxi region of southwestern China and China’s aviation regulator still has not released an official statement to explain what caused the plane to crash, killing 132 people.  Previous reports on the March 21st anniversary provided scant information.  One social media comment suggested that no report was a report in and of itself (Reuters).

US senator and Trump supporter Daines meets China’s vice premier in Beijing / March 22, 2025

Current US Senator Steve Daines, a one-time businessman who worked in China, was in Beijing to meet with Chinese officials on behalf of US President Donald Trump.  Daines met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Saturday and Premier Li Qiang on Sunday.  Daines had served in a similar position during Trump’s first term (AP News).

Beijing pledges greater market access at the China Development Forum / March 24, 2025

Numerous multi-national CEOs and dignitaries were in attendance at the China Development Forum in Beijing that began on Sunday, including Apple’s Tim Cook and US Senator Steve Daines.  China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng assured those in attendance that China will continue to open its markets and invite foreign investment at a critical time as China attempts to jump-start its sluggish economy (CNBC).

China releases staff of an American due diligence firm in a move to woo investors / March 25, 2025

Perhaps in an effort to show foreign investors that China offers a safe and benevolent environment for doing business, China released all the employees of the Mintz group, a corporate due diligence firm, after detaining them for about two years.  China increased its scrutiny of foreign firms in China about four years ago, driving down foreign investment sentiment (NPR).

Chinese electric carmaker BYD sales beat Tesla / March 24, 2025

Chinese EV automaker BYD reported sales that were about $10 billion more than Tesla’s revenue in 2024, citing that its hybrid sales helped achieve the increase in sales.  BYD can sell its vehicles for a cheaper price, recently releasing a rival model to Tesla’s Model 3, and offering its “God’s eye” driver assistance technology for free in all of its vehicles (BBC).

Trump hints at 'flexibility' for China even as he plows ahead with global tariff plans / March 23, 2025

President Trump’s on-again, off-again tariff threats have made for an uneasy market, but more is yet to come as an April 2nd deadline for a global tariff is in Trump’s plan to even out the playing field when it comes to the country’s trade deficit with many countries.  While Trump is serious about the tariff threat, he is open to “flexibility” when he was talking about China. He hopes the term will also be in China’s vocabulary (NBC News).

U.S. blacklists over 50 Chinese companies in bid to curb Beijing’s AI, chip capabilities / March 26, 2025

The Trump Administration has blacklisted 50 Chinese companies in an effort to keep US technology from benefitting Chinese companies and its military.   The Chinese companies had been using loopholes to skirt previous sanctions placed on them by the former Trump and Biden Administrations (CNBC).

China rolls out new rules to step up countermeasures to foreign sanctions / March 24, 2025

Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced new measures on Monday to respond to any sanctions placed against China by implementing a 2021 anti-foreign sanctions law.  The measures cover a wide array of commerce and allow for the deportation of foreigners, confiscation of property in China, and banning imports or exports of goods (Reuters).

The U.S. is not prepared to win an economic war against China-built containerships / March 24, 2025

An investigation, begun under the Biden Administration, has revealed that the vast majority of containerships are built in China.  In order to encourage US shipbuilding, the Trump Administration is considering charging fines for all Chinese-built vessels that bring goods to US ports and using the revenue to support US shipbuilding.  Many in the global shipping industry say the costs could be economically catastrophic (CNBC).

India-China relations: Modi's hope for a thaw amid uncertain geopolitics / March 23, 2025

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had positive things to say recently about India’s relationship with China, despite a recent border clash (2020) in the Ladakh region between the two countries.  But a number of India’s economic and geopolitical relationships could either threaten or solidify the two countries’ relationship depending on how they play out (BBC News).

China’s missed emissions target poses challenge to global climate efforts / March 25, 2025

China’s “carbon intensity” ratio fell by 3.4 percent in 2024, falling short of its 3.9 percent goal for the year.  China is the world’s leading polluter as well as the world leader in renewable energy investment.  The country has pledged to be carbon neutral by 2060.  About 28 percent of its energy comes from solar, wind and hydropower (Al Jazeera).

Changsha’s Star Turn: How a Historic City Became China’s “Capital of Entertainment” / March 21, 2025

Once a transit stop for travelers going west, the capital of Hunan province, Changsha, has become a popular tourist destination for its food and entertainment.  But some wonder if the city’s popularity is just a result of media influencers.  Will it stand the test of time?  (The World of Chinese).

Tesla’s China rival Zeekr to roll out advanced driver assistance system for free / March 18, 2025

China’s electric car company Zeekr plans to offer driver assistance technology for free in its vehicles as a way to compete against Tesla’s offerings of the same technology, which can cost up to $8,850.  Other Chinese automakers offer various forms of driver assistance, but Zeekr is willing to bear the cost if it puts them ahead of their competitor (CNBC).

China maps out plan to raise incomes and boost consumption / March 16, 2025

China has big plans to increase wages, adjust the minimum wage, provide childcare subsidies, and a flurry of other incentives to boost consumption, increase investment, and promote bearing children.  China’s stock market rallied on the news last Friday (Fortune).

Trump’s cuts to Voice of America may be welcomed by China’s government / March 18, 2025

President Trump’s cuts to the US state-run media outlets like Radio Free Asia and Voice of America may open the door to authoritarian governments like China to fill the gap.  China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, hailed Trump’s move as a blessing for China, as she criticized VOA and RFA as sources of misinformation against China (AP News).

China conducts drills near Taiwan in response to US and Taiwanese statements / March 18, 2025

China ramped up its military exercises around Taiwan from Sunday through Monday with some of its aircraft entering Taiwan’s air space.  China claims the increased activity was in response to statements and actions made by both the US and Taiwan that supported the island’s independence (AP News).

China scrutinizing Hong Kong firm’s sale of Panama Canal ports / March 18, 2025

A Hong Kong company, CK Hutchison, has entered negotiations with the American investment company, Blackrock, to sell some of its global ports near the Panama Canal, causing senior officials in the Chinese government to criticize the pending deal and to condemn political coercion.  China may try to block the deal with lawsuits (Al Jazeera).  

China’s military is going to war against itself / March 19, 2025

Recent purges in China’s military suggest to some that China may be facing an internal crisis.  Two theories are possible:  either President Xi is getting paranoid and is purging even those officers he has appointed, or Xi’s opponents are targeting Xi’s appointees.  Beginning last July, unusual articles in the Chinese military newspaper challenged Xi’s philosophy on military unity (The Hill).

Xi inspects Guizhou, stresses high-quality development / March 19, 2025

President Xi toured Guizhou, a province in the western region of China, promoting industrial growth and high-quality development, stressing the importance of the western provinces to the Chinese economy.  To achieve this goal, Xi stressed that the provinces must fervently adhere to the Party’s leadership (The Global Times).

Canada says China executed four Canadians earlier this year / March 20, 2025

Canada’s Foreign Minister, Mélanie Joly, announced that China executed four dual-citizenship Canadians in China for drug crimes in the last few months, further souring relations between the two countries.  Like the US, Canada is in a tariff war with China.  China does not recognize the dual citizenship of its citizens (NPR).

Trump says Xi Jinping will visit Washington in 'not too distant future' / March 18, 2025

President Trump suggested on Monday that President Xi may visit Washington D.C. sometime soon, possibly in April or June.  The President was inspecting Washington D.C., recommending improvements to clean up the city after an increase in homelessness and graffiti during the Biden administration, and improving the city’s roads and highways, preferably before a Xi visit (Yahoo News).

China ends its annual Congress with questions about how to revive its slowing economy / March 11, 2025

“How much will the Chinese government do to revive its economy?” is the unanswered question at the end of the annual National People’s Congress last week.  There appears to be some help for privately owned businesses to get loans and perhaps an easing of regulatory crackdowns.  But President Trump’s tariff war and the threat of a potential recession in the US could prolong any recovery (AP News).

‘Race against time’ sees Premier Li put all Chinese officials on notice amid uncertainties / March 13, 2025

As the National People’s Congress drew to a close, Chinese Premier Li Qiang urged all government officials to carry out their assigned duties in haste so that the economy may reach its economic growth rate of nearly 5%.  China’s economic plan for 2025 includes a focus on various hi-tech development and loans for privately held businesses (SCMP).

China’s Inflation Declines Below Zero for First Time in Year / March 9, 2025

China’s consumer price index fell 0.7% from a year earlier in February, demonstrating that China’s economy is still under strong deflationary pressure.  Other figures also suggested a sluggish consumer demand still persists (Yahoo Finance).

China Sees Red as Trade War Escalates / March 11, 2025

In his memoir, George W. Bush revealed a question he asks foreign leaders, “What keeps you up at night?”  How President Xi might answer that question would be fascinating to know.  A defiantly sluggish economy, a restless citizenry, and the trade war with the US would probably make the top three candidates (US News).

China learned from Trump's first trade war and changed its tactics for round two / March 9, 2025

China was caught off-guard when President Trump placed tariffs on China during his first term, so now that President Trump has entered office again, and played a tariff card again, China was prepared to retaliate in kind and has a toolbox of measures to employ.  China is ready to talk, but it won’t beg for mercy (CTV News). 

China says it’s willing to cooperate with the U.S. on fentanyl / March 12, 2025

China’s government stated that it has done a great deal to mitigate the fentanyl drug crisis and that the US should be saying “thank you” instead of hitting China with more tariffs.  But the country says it is also willing to work with the US as long as the diplomacy doesn’t end up creating more tariffs (CNBC).

Next Canadian leader will feel US wrath if he gets too close to China / March 12, 2025

Canada finds itself in the middle of a trade and tariff war, caught between the world’s two largest economies:  the US and China.  Canada’s next Prime Minister, Mark Carney, will have to navigate the tumultuous waters between the two countries as both wage their own tariff wars with each other, putting Canada in the middle (SCMP). 

As Trump shakes the international order, China casts itself as a model of stability / March 9, 2025

“Stability” was the name of the game in Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi’s annual news conference on Friday, as if to assure the world that China is a safe political and economic alternative to President Trump’s current shuffling of the long-standing economic arrangement with its allies and enemies. After Wang’s charged retort to Trump’s tariff war earlier in the week, China seems to be maintaining its diplomatic composure to lure more countries to itself (NBC News).

Tariffs could deal a blow to Chinatowns / March 9, 2025

Chinese enterprises in Chinatowns across the US may be particularly hit hard by the tariff war between the US and China as most of the goods they sell are imported from China.  Prices may rise by 8%.  With more than a quarter of Chinatown’s resident in New York City living under the poverty line, it will be more difficult to procure their traditional and customary products (NBC News).

Iran’s nuclear program in focus in China, Russia and US / March 12, 2025

As President Trump has issued a new call for Iran to scuttle its nuclear program, Iran’s allies, Russia and China, are scheduled to meet in Beijing on March 14th to discuss the matter.  Trump has been heavy fisted toward Iran, but Iran’s President has been equally defiant (Al Jazeera).

China's Plan to Tackle Birth Rate Crisis / March 9, 2025

China’s “births per woman” count has been declining from a high of twelve million in 1970 to two million in 2020.  China’s elderly population is also growing rapidly.  That puts China in what the UN calls a “super-aged society.”  Attempts to encourage young adults to marry and bear children have not been very successful as changing cultural perspectives about parenting and the economic burden of raising a family work against the concept of having children (Newsweek).

China far outpacing US in military, commercial ship numbers / March 9, 2025

Last week President Trump announced plans to “resurrect” the country’s shipbuilding industry as China is far outpacing both in the construction of military ships and commercial ships.  The US industry has been plagued with irregular funding from the government that has put suppliers out of business and estranged skilled workers due to lack of job security (VOA).

Facebook was 'hand in glove' with China, BBC told / March 10, 2025

Facebook’s former global public policy director, Sarah Wynn-Williams, has written a book revealing some of the company’s negotiations with the Chinese Communist Party as Mark Zuckerberg sought to get Facebook into the highly censored country.  The process allowed Chinese technologists to see the inner workings of the social media platform (BBC).

Taiwan says tougher measures needed to counter Chinese infiltration / March 13, 2025

Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te warned that China has increased its infiltration and espionage campaign on the island, stating that 64 Chinese operatives had been arrested in 2024, three times as many as in 2021.  Lai also said he has more than a dozen countermeasures to thwart China’s soft-war campaign (Al Jazeera).

Concern grows in Washington, Seoul about China's disinformation campaign / February 28, 2025

South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol has been facing impeachment charges since December, and if the court rules against him, South Korea will have sixty days to elect a new President.  Many are concerned that China has infiltrated social media in the republic, creating conflict and promoting the pro-China Democratic Party candidate (VOA).

Anti-corruption purges raise serious questions about China’s military readiness / March 1, 2025

President Xi’s continuing purge of the People’s Liberation Army hit another casualty in February as Tan Ruisong, former chairman of the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China, was removed from his position on corruption charges.  Analysts say the purges that have removed over a dozen officials over the last two years have more to do with suspected disloyalty to Xi rather than bribery or fraud. Such purges lower morale in the PLA (VOA).

Troops, Cartels, and China: What Mexico Is Doing to Stave Off Tariffs / March 2, 2025

While the Trump Administration continues to pressure Mexico to toughen up on illegal migration and drug trafficking across the US-Mexico border, Mexican President Scheinbaum has been actively working to do as Trump demands, stationing National Guard troops on Mexico’s northern border, targeting the cartels with arrests and sending some to the US for prosecution, and placing tariffs on Chinese imports (The New York Times).

Trade tensions heat up as China and Canada retaliate against U.S. tariffs / March 3, 2025

Both China and Canada vowed to retaliate against the Trump administration’s application of tariffs on imports from both countries with tariffs of their own on US imports.  President Trump has said his tariffs have been placed to balance trade between the US’s three largest trade partners and to stem the flow of drugs, especially fentanyl, into the US (NBC News).

Some Chinese companies relocate to Cambodia's "Special Economic Zone" to avoid tariffs / March 3, 2025

As President Trump attempts to coax manufacturers to move their factories to the US to avoid tariffs, Chinese companies are moving to a “special economic zone” in Cambodia for the same reason.  Cambodia has not yet been pulled into the trade war, so Chinese companies are moving there quickly.  Cambodian trade with the US increased from $3 billion—prior to 2024—to $13 billion in 2024 (CBS News).

Falling prices signal bigger troubles ahead for China’s economy / March 4, 2025

 Deflation in China intensified in the last quarter of 2024 as China’s citizens continue to deal with falling prices, an uncertain future, high youth unemployment, and plummeting housing values.  The tariff war may make things even worse.  Some economists say government vouchers for citizens should boost consumer demand (AP News).

China retaliates against US tariffs - but it also wants to talk / March 3, 2025

China’s response to the latest tariff increases by the US has not been as aggressive as their response to Trump’s first-term tariff barrage, possibly signaling that they want to work out a deal with Trump.  Meanwhile, they will likely take advantage of Trump’s bullish behavior, inviting other nations to partner with China instead (BBC).

China targets 5% growth as it reels from Trump tariffs / March 5, 2025

As the National People’s Congress began meeting this week, one of its first announcements was a 5% goal for China’s economic growth target.  But President Trump’s 10% tariff hike also went into effect this week, setting up a challenge to that growth target by potentially shrinking Chinese exports (BBC).

Tesla China shipments tumble, the latest sign of weakening demand / March 4, 2025

Tesla’s shipments of autos from China fell almost 50% in February compared to a year ago, while other domestic Chinese automakers saw increases in their sales, strongly suggesting that Tesla is losing ground in its popularity in China. Chinese automakers can sell their EVs more cheaply (Yahoo Finance).

DeepSeek AI bot is part of China’s 'Unrestricted Warfare’ doctrine / March 2, 2025

“To win without fighting” has been a military strategy utilized by China for centuries.  Employ activities to cause the enemy to either harm itself or neutralize its capability to defend itself.  One journalist states that China’s DeepSeek AI program is part of this strategy, gathering personal information from its users, and allowing harmful media information through its safety buffers (Fox News).

"If War Is What the US Wants...": China's Sharp Retort to Trump's Tariff Charge / March 5, 2025

Responding to President Trump’s announcement of his tariff hike against China this week, the Chinese Embassy in the US declared that China is ready for any type of war the US wants.  Trump says the tariffs are partly due to China’s lack of effort in curtailing its involvement in the fentanyl drug trade.  China denies involvement but also says it has done what it can already (NDTV World).

China is working on a huge aircraft carrier that rivals the biggest in the U.S. fleet / March 2, 2025

Satellite images of the Dalian shipyard in northeastern China suggest that China is working on constructing an aircraft carrier that can launch jets from four catapults, matching the size and capabilities of the largest ships in the US fleet.  The images show a prototype module, indicating it may be a few years before a supercarrier could be built (NBC News).

CNA Explains: What China’s Two Sessions mean for the world / March 3, 2025

China’s Two Sessions—the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference—meet this week to approve the CCP’s agenda for the year and discuss national matters.  In many ways, the conferences are almost a “who’s who” celebrity event as participants include CEOs of major companies and all-star athletes, among other ethnic representatives (CNA).

What to watch for at China's major political event this week / March 3, 2025

China’s National People’s Congress meets this week to rubberstamp the CCP’s plans for the year, including economic targets, China’s response to the Trump tariffs, foreign diplomacy, and domestic plans.  Evidently, the economic focus will shift from increasing domestic demand to a geopolitical plan to increase industry and technological innovation (NBC News).

China's factory activity growth hits 3-month high in February / March 2, 2025

China’s factory activity increased to hit a 3-month high in February as millions of workers went back to the factories after the Chinese Lunar New Year holiday, and as manufacturers tried to get ahead of increased tariff threats from the US.  In spite of the small jump in manufacturing, the US-China trade war may push another economic slowdown (NBC 10).

US charges Chinese hackers and government officials in a broad cybercrime campaign / March 6, 2025

The US Justice Department announced that it has charged a dozen Chinese nationals with cybercrimes against a variety of individuals, companies, and governments, including the US.  Most of those charged worked for a Chinese hacking company called I-Soon.  While China’s economy struggles, it appears the cyber hacking industry is strong and healthy as hackers are paid generously by the Chinese government for information they find (AP News).

Putin, China’s Xi to discuss US-Russia talks held in Saudi Arabia: Kremlin / February 22, 2025

The US delegation that met with their Russian counterparts in Saudi Arabia last week marked a shift in US policy regarding the war in Ukraine.  It also upset US allies in Europe and suggested a possible attempt to pull Russia away from its strong relationship with China, although Chinese officials confirmed that the relationship between Russia and China is solid (SCMP).

China's Xi affirms 'no limits' partnership with Putin in call on Ukraine war anniversary / February 24, 2025

In reaction to President Trump’s negotiations with Russian President Putin to end the war in Ukraine and possibly to pull Russia away from its relationship with China, Chinese President Xi and President Putin held a phone call on Monday, the 3rd anniversary of the start of the war in Ukraine, to reaffirm their solidarity (NBC News).

Trump Team Seeking to Toughen Biden’s Chip Controls Over China / February 25, 2025

In a rare area of political agreement, the Trump administration plans to continue the tech sanctions the Biden administration instituted against China, but it is likely President Trump will increase them and urge other countries to also restrict sales of semiconductor products to China from their own companies (Yahoo Finance).

China to Inject at Least $55 Billion of Fresh Capital into Several Big Banks / February 26, 2025

As part of a plan initiated last September, the government of China plans to inject $55 billion into some of its largest banks in an effort to strengthen the banking sector and revive the nation’s economy.  The funds will come from a special sovereign bond issue (Yahoo Finance).

Here’s what makes HKU5-CoV-2 different from COVID-19 / February 23, 2025

While a newly discovered bat virus is able to bind to human receptors in lab tests, some virologists say we should not panic about its potential to create a new global pandemic.  The virus does not bind strongly to those receptors, and humankind’s new immunity to the COVID-19 virus may help to ward off the new virus (The Economic Times).

Chinese warships near Australia and New Zealand prompt alarm / February 24, 2025

China’s navy held live-fire military drills in international waters between Australia and New Zealand last Friday and Saturday, prompting passenger air flights to quickly divert from their flight path over the area for safety reasons.  While the ships did not violate any maritime laws, their presence was alarming after Australia’s relationship with China had improved slightly (ABC News—Australia).

China holds live-fire drills in Gulf of Tonkin after Vietnam maps new territory/ February 24, 2025

China held live-fire military drills in the South China Sea in the Gulf of Tonkin, just after Vietnam had recently published border lines to mark out its territorial waters.  China claims most of the South China Sea as its own territory, but a number of countries also have competing claims along their coastlines (Sky News).

China holds 'shooting' drills off Taiwan's coast, as Beijing vows 'reunification' push / February 26, 2025

China’s military held exercises in the Taiwan Strait on Wednesday this week, prompting Taiwan to issue a complaint over the proximity of the drills and the fact that they were held “without warning.”  The drills were held just forty nautical miles from Taiwan’s southwestern coast (NBC News).

Taiwan coast guard detains Chinese-crewed vessel suspected of cutting undersea cable / February 25, 2025

After the Taiwan Coast Guard detected that an undersea cable between Taiwan and the island called Penghu had been cut on Tuesday, the Coast Guard detained a ship that was within 1000 meters from the cable.  The ship’s crew were all Chinese nationals.  This is the fifth time this year that such cables have been cut near Taiwan (Fox News).

'Puppy mountain' along Chinese river draws in tourists / February 25, 2025

A social media post made on February 14th has brought a mountain along the Yangtze River, the world’s third longest, into notoriety, as the post garnered 120,000 likes in ten days.  From a certain perspective, the mountain looks like a dog’s face with its snout in the water.  People have been flocking to the mountain, often with their dogs, to enjoy the view (Sky News).

Moment of a massive avalanche engulfing tourists in China / February 24, 2025

An avalanche of snow barreled down a mountain in China, eventually reaching a crowd of tourists watching the rush of snow that eventually hit them with a blizzard-like torrent of snow as they sought cover in a shelter.  No casualties were reported (Al Jazeera).

Chinese company withdraws notice setting deadline for single workers to get married / February 25, 2025

The Shuntian Chemical Group, based in eastern China’s Shandong province, announced last month that any of its employees who were single or divorced were to “resolve their marital issues” by September, or face termination of employment.  The order was intended to encourage marriage and having children to help reverse China’s declining population.  After social media complaints and a visit by government officials, the decree was rescinded (NBC News).

Thailand deports 48 Uighurs to China despite human rights concerns / February 27, 2025

Thailand confirmed that almost fifty Uighurs migrants had been returned to China on Thursday.  The migrants fled China back in 2014 and had been detained in Thailand for most of that time.  UN human rights officials decried the transfer and worried for the safety and well-being of the Muslim citizens (Al Jazeera).

China seeks stronger cooperation with Germany and EU / February 15, 2025

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi was in Germany last week for the Munich Security Conference, promoting a stronger economic and strategic partnership with Germany and the EU as a whole.  Wang also met with German officials to talk about peace talks for the war in Ukraine, and he spoke with the Foreign Ministers of Spain and France, as well (Reuters).

China celebrates Trump's talks with Russia / February 16, 2025

A former Chinese military colonel Zhou Bo spoke highly of President Trump’s interest in ending the war in Ukraine, saying that Trump himself asked China to take a part in the process.  Zhou proposed three ways China could play a part: China could share in providing a security guarantee to Ukraine and Russia; China could provide a peace-keeping security force in Ukraine; and, China could participate in Ukraine’s reconstruction (DW News).

Sen. Tom Cotton explains China’s ‘ultimate goal’ / February 16, 2025

In his new book, Seven Things You Can’t Say About China, Senator Tom Cotton states that overall, China wants to replace the US as the world’s military and economic power, as can be seen by its behavior over the last few decades (Fox News).

Is China’s military really built for war? / February 17, 2025

While China may be building up its military to engage in war, perhaps over Taiwan, it has another frontline where it hopes to score a victory:  the propaganda campaign over its own people.  China’s CCP needs a powerful military to help justify its rule over the Chinese people (CNN World).

China angered as US amends wording on Taiwan independence / February 16, 2025

Last week, the US State Department removed a statement from its website that says the US does “not support Taiwan Independence,” causing China’s angry response, saying that the change would inspire “separatist forces” to advocate for an independent Taiwan.  A US spokesperson stated that the US still supports the “One-China” policy (BBC).

Revealed: Google facilitated Russia and China’s censorship requests / February 15, 2025

According to information obtained by “The Observer,” a subsidiary of The Guardian, Google acquiesced to censorship requests from Russia, China, the Taliban, dictatorships, and democratic governments since 2011.  Between 2020 and 2024, 60% of the requests for the removal of content came from Russia. Google removed over 200 videos about political corruption in China as well as critical impersonations of President Xi, at the government’s request (The Guardian).

China's Xi holds rare meet with business leaders amid US tech rivalry / February 17, 2025

President Xi held a rare meeting with Chinese business leaders on Monday to encourage more innovation among China’s privately held companies, both to inject new life into China’s struggling economy and to keep in the technological race with the US.  Many were quick to notice both who was invited, and who was not (Reuters).

U.S. condemns Chinese maneuvers after close encounter with Philippine plane / February 19, 2025

U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay L. Carson condemned the actions of a Chinese PLA navy pilot who flew his helicopter within ten feet of a Philippines Bureau of Fisheries plane that was flying over the Scarborough Shoal on Tuesday.  The helicopter was attempting to force the plane out of the area but threatened the safety of everyone in both aircraft (NBC News).

Cook Islands gives some details of its China deal that has upset partner New Zealand / February 18, 2025

Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown signed agreements with China recently, causing its constitutional partner, New Zealand, to cry foul because Brown did not provide details of the agreement before or after he signed on to the agreement.  China has made deals with many South Pacific island nations over the last decade, but often the details are not made public.  (AP News).

Cook Islands Prime Minister to face no-confidence vote amid protests over China pact / February 18, 2025

Opposition party leaders Teariki Heather and Tina Browne filed a no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Mark Brown in the Cook Island’s Parliament after Brown signed an agreement with China without the prior involvement of New Zealand and initially refusing to reveal the details of the deal (ABC News Australia).

As Melania Trump returns to the White House, she’s winning Chinese fans / February 19, 2025

First Lady Melania Trump is becoming a popular figure, especially among Chinese women as she returned to the White House in January.  They respect her strength, independence, loyalty to her husband, and her ascension to global notoriety from her small Slovenian town origins.  Her success even positively influences her fans’ appreciation of President Trump (AP News).

New marriages in China crash to record low, while divorces on the rise / February 10, 2025

Marriages in China in 2024 fell 20.5% from the previous year, marking a continuous downward trend since marriages peaked in 2013.  Sadly, divorces also increased in 2024 by about 28,000 over 2023.  Despite a slight increase in the birth rate, China’s overall population decreased, as well, in 2024.  Government incentives to marry and have children don’t seem to be working (CNN World).

Trump wants China to play a role in peace in Ukraine. Is Xi Jinping willing to help? / February 12, 2025

President Donald Trump wants the war in Ukraine to end, and he’s hoping China’s President Xi will assist in the process, utilizing his close relationship with President Putin of Russia.  But that puts Xi in a difficult position, as he does not want to see Russia weakened by the outcome (CNN World).

China proposes Putin-Trump summit to end Ukraine war, WSJ reports / February 12, 2025

China has been working behind the scenes with the Trump team to organize a meeting between President Trump and Russian President Putin, although Trump had a phone call with Putin on Wednesday, directed his officials to start working on a peace deal in Ukraine, and proposed meeting with Putin in person in Saudi Arabia (Reuters).

China lashes out at US after Panama declines to renew infrastructure agreement / February 7, 2025

When Panama pulled out of an arrangement with China concerning two ports on each side of the Canal, China snapped at the US, accusing it of coercion.  China has invested in the Canal ports as part of its Belt and Road initiative, but President Trump sees China’s position in the Canal region as a threat to national and regional security (AP News).

China's tit-for-tat tariffs on US take effect / February 9, 2025

As the trade war escalates between the US and China, China started charging new tariffs on US imports last Monday.  The move had been announced on February 4th just as President Trump’s tariffs on Chinese exports went into effect.  China also went into “harass mode” against US companies Google and clothing designer PVH (BBC).

Why China could benefit most from Trump's tariffs / February 10, 2025

On the same day China’s counter-tariffs went into effect (Monday), President Trump announced 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum exports to the US, affecting not only China but a number of other nations that are also allies of the US.  Trump’s tariffs, however, could backfire on him if China presents more favorable trade options to countries that don’t want to bend to Trump’s will (Sky News).

Trump’s assault on USAID leaves China soft power opening in Southeast Asia / February 13, 2025

President Trump’s pause on USAID’s funding of foreign aid projects may open a door for China to step in with its own form of “soft power” in providing humanitarian aid to Southeast Asian nations.  But China’s own economic health is limiting what it can do outside of its borders (Al Jazeera).

Tesla's Chinese rival widens lead / February 11, 2025

Tesla had a difficult year in 2024 with auto sales down in the US, Europe, and China.  And January’s numbers this year are strikingly lower with US sales down 13%, around 60% in France and Germany, and nearly 40% in Norway.  Sales were also down over 11% in China.  But BYD, Tesla’s biggest rival in China, enjoyed a surge in sales with the start of the new year (LinkedIn).

Chinese cranes at U.S. ports raise homeland security concerns / February 11, 2025

“Made in China” may show up on the imprinted tag on your new dress shirt, but it also is the source of 80% of ship-to-shore cranes in US ports.  And because the cranes are automated, many are concerned that they could be remotely shut down by a foreign adversary (CBS News).

Hundreds protest in London against proposed 'mega embassy' for China / February 8, 2025

China’s efforts to move its UK embassy into a larger facility met with protestors on Saturday with many citing concerns about economic espionage and harassment against Hong Kong and Chinese citizens living in Britain. As the UK’s leadership looks to improve ties with China, the protestors have even more cause for concern (VOA).

One dead, 28 missing after China landslide / February 9, 2025

A landslide in the Sichuan province’s village of Jinping claimed the life of at least one person, with twenty-eight missing and another 200 relocated as investigators assess potential dangers in the area.  President Xi called for an “all-out” rescue of those who were trapped in the slide.  The mountainous region in south-central China suffered similar landslides in the past (BBC).

China says US naval patrol of Taiwan Strait poses security risk / February 12, 2025

Two US naval ships passed through the Taiwan Strait between Monday and Wednesday this week, sparking a response by China condemning the move as a threat to regional security.  The US ships, however, were passing through international waters, a somewhat routine procedure by the US and other countries’ naval ships (Al Jazeera).

Australia says Chinese fighter jet’s flares almost hit spy plane over South China Sea / February 13, 2025

A Chinese jet fighter dropped flares within 100 feet of an Australian military surveillance plane flying over international waters in the South China Sea.  China claimed that the Australian plane was flying over the Paracel Islands, which it claims for itself.  The two countries have sparred occasionally over such surveillance conflicts in the last few years (CBS News).

Chinese animated film shatters box office records as it heads overseas / February 12, 2025

 A new animated movie, Ne Zha 2, has shattered box office records in China and on a global scale as the movie that was completely produced in China drew crowds during the Chinese New Year holiday.  It has become a source of national pride for the people of China as it draws on a popular Chinese cultural legend and weaves in modern cinematic technology and art forms (NBC News).

'DeepSeek moved me to tears': How young Chinese find therapy in AI / February 12, 2025

Professional counseling and psychiatric care are limited or overly costly in China, and a stigma looms over the concept of mental health care.  So, many Chinese citizens are finding solutions and emotional care in DeepSeek, which appears to be incredibly empathetic, practical, and responsive (BBC).

Trump slaps tariffs on Canada, Mexico, China, risking higher prices for U.S. consumers / February 1, 2025

President Trump made good on a campaign promise to set tariffs on China, Mexico, and Canada until they stop the flow of fentanyl precursors into the US across the federal borders.  He signed an executive order for the tariffs to go into effect on Tuesday.  Some expressed concerns that the tariffs will increase prices for numerous products (NBC News).

Mexico, Canada and China respond to Trump tariff threats / February 2, 2025

Amid the concerns that Trump’s tariffs will spike prices in the US, it was also expected that China, Mexico and Canada will respond to Trump’s tariff volley with more tariffs of their own rather than address the border issues, the fentanyl crisis, and trade deficits (Fox 13-Seattle).

China denounces Trump tariff: 'Fentanyl is America's problem' / February 2, 2025

China’s government responded to Trump’s tariff executive order by filing a complaint with the WTO and criticizing the order as a violation of international trade rules, claiming that China has done everything necessary regarding anti-narcotics with the US, and that Fentanyl is not their problem (CNA).

China unveils US tariffs and Google investigation in response to Trump levies / February 4, 2025

China responded to Trump’s ten percent tariffs against China with tariffs of its own against US exports, and filed an anti-trust investigation against Google, as well, even though it accused Trump of breaking international trade rules with his tariffs.  China’s tariffs were placed on fossil fuels, minerals, farm equipment, large vehicles and pickup trucks.  Canada and Mexico, however, made deals with the Trump administration to halt tariffs at least temporarily (The Guardian).

Fast fashion, laptops and toys are likely to cost more due to US tariffs on Chinese imports / February 5, 2025

Since China has not come to the table to deal with President Trump, the US administration’s 10% tariff on Chinese imports took effect on Tuesday, worrying Americans over rising prices for electronics, toys, cheap clothing, and even auto parts.  Orders worth less than $800 are now also subject to taxes, causing the USPS to refuse packages from China until a process was developed to implement the tax.  But some companies say they plan to absorb the extra cost for the short term, perhaps hoping that the situation will be resolved before the customer feels the pinch (AP News).

Why China has not retaliated more in Donald Trump trade spat / February 4, 2025

Observers have been quizzical over two things in the tariff spat that began this week. First, Trump was rather light-handed in dropping only a 10% tariff on Chinese imports while he stuck US allies Mexico and Canada with 25% tariffs.  Second, China’s initial response has also been rather calm, perhaps because it knows how to work the system to avoid harm (Sky News).

China’s box office riding Lunar New Year wave to record Spring Festival haul / February 3, 2025

China’s Lunar New Year smiled on the Chinese movie industry as box office records were set for the first six days of the national holiday.  Ticket sales surpassed $1.05 billion and bookings were up nine percent over last year.  Like other economic sectors, the Chinese film industry has struggled since the Covid pandemic shut down society (SCMP).

Returnee Ministry: Reflecting on Developments / December 18, 2024

Returnee Ministry—the process of Chinese students and workers who became Christians abroad, then returning to China with their new-found faith—is the focus of this set of articles that describe the phenomenon since it was first focused on in 2016.  Biblical “returnees” Jacob and Onesimus provide inspired guidance, and the church’s history also provides examples and support (China Source).

Catholic Church in China: The Strange Case of Bishop Ji Weizhong / February 5, 2025

The CCP’s oversight of the official church in China is well known, even over the Catholic church in China.  But last year, the CCP appointed a new bishop over a completely new diocese, the Diocese of Lüliang, that it also created, and announced the appointment three months before the Vatican did.  At the consecration ceremony, the Vatican’s appointment wasn’t even mentioned (Bitter Winter).

What DeepSeek Says about the Church in China / January 31, 2025

Users of DeepSeek’s AI model R1 have run into the system’s limits when asked questions on sensitive topics in Chinese culture as the chatbot often resorts to common CCP philosophy.  But one user asked about whether he should attend a Christian house church, and the answer R1 gave was surprising, and likely, unsettling.  The chatbot also reveals its processing thoughts, demonstrating its vast knowledge, but also its inability to speak freely (Christianity Today).

The Real Problem with DeepSeek / February 6, 2025

As the world—minus Italy—has jumped on the DeepSeek bandwagon, some, perhaps too few, have raised concerns that the new AI chatbot is nothing short of a socialist AI program for the world.  DeepSeek’s R1 chatbot avoids providing information on the CCP’s “sensitive” subjects like human rights and Tiananmen Square.  The CCP’s agencies for AI regulation even have duplicitous names to mask their real agenda (Bitter Winter).   

DeepSeek coding can transfer users' data directly to the Chinese government / February 5, 2025

If there was concern over TikTok’s ability to provide the personal information of its users to the CCP, experts revealed that DeepSeek’s R1 chatbot can and does transfer users’ information directly to the CCP through CMPassport.com, the online registry for China Mobile, which is owned and operated by the Chinese government (ABC News).

U.S. lawmakers move to ban China's DeepSeek from government devices / February 6, 2025

Bipartisan congressional leaders have submitted a bill to ban DeepSeek’s AI program from US government devices as the program is an espionage risk, able to track and store users’ login and personal data as well as their online activity, and not just when using the ap.  China Mobile, the CCP-owned entity that receives the data, was banned from operating in the US (NBC News).

 Slithering Into the Year of the Snake / January 28, 2025

Christians in China need to navigate the intricacies of the Chinese New Year, honoring traditions and customs without falling into the idolatry that sometimes appears in some customs.  This article offers access to ten additional articles that further explore New Year customs from a Christian perspective (China Source).

CIA believes lab leak most likely caused COVID outbreak / January 26, 2025

New CIA Director, John Ratcliffe, ordered the release of a study by the CIA that concluded with “low probability” that the COVID-19 virus came from the Wuhan virology lab and not from an animal.  The agency still acknowledges that the virus could have emanated from either source (Sky News).

China’s support for Myanmar regime backfires; scam syndicates thrive / January 25, 2025

China is battling against international human trafficking, kidnapping, online scams, and fraud that recently included the abduction of a popular actor, Wang Zing.  The principal countries involved in these crimes are Thailand and Myanmar.  But China’s support for the governments of these two nations conflicts with its duty to rescue its citizens held there and to stop the crimes from happening (VOA).

Chinese Man Rejects Rs 2 Crore Offer, Lives In House Surrounded By Highway / January 25, 2025

Like the movie, Up, Huang Ping is an elderly man who didn’t want to give up his home in the city of Jinxi, southwest of Shanghai, China.  The government planned to build a highway where his house stood.  After offering money and other properties to Huang so that he would sell, the government built the highway around his house.  Now, as the road prepares to open, Huang wonders if he made the wrong choice (NDTV World).

Puzzling fossils unearthed in China may rewrite the human story / January 25, 2025

Human-like skull fossils found in China fifty years ago are the focus of current anthropologists who are suggesting the larger than usual skull fragments represent a new species alongside homo erectus, homo sapiens, and others.   The theory challenges the concept that humanity descended from one species (CNN Science).

China's Population Decline Worsens / January 26, 2025

In spite of a slight increase in births in China in 2024, the population still shrank by almost 1.4 million people, and the number of marriages in 2024 decreased to a level not seen since 1980.  Local governments continue to offer pro-natal policies, but many are concerned that won’t be enough (WION World News).

Tech stocks fall as China's DeepSeek sparks U.S. worries about the AI race / January 27, 2025

China’s AI developer DeepSeek released its latest AI component in December, but its high-quality abilities became known this week, stunning the US and global tech stock market into a freefall.  Even energy companies, projected to build additional power plants to provide electricity to anticipated AI centers, lost value in their stocks, some by 20% or more (NBC News).

Trump says China's DeepSeek AI 'should be a wake-up call' for American tech companies / January 27, 2025

China’s DeepSeek AI app shot to the top of the Apple Store’s most popular downloads last weekend, prompting a freefall in global tech stocks as the new app’s quick and low-cost development and seemingly excellent performance stunned the tech world.  President Trump acknowledged its success and advised US tech companies to challenge the new competition (NBC News).

Why market panic over China's DeepSeek is 'overblown,' analysts say / January 27, 2025

While investors and others panicked over DeepSeek’s surprise hit on the global tech market, some analysts saw a positive side of the app’s challenging popularity and production affordability.  Citing Jevon’s Paradox, where technological advancements at a lower cost drive up the overall demand for a product, these analysts see other AI companies benefiting from the demand and the challenge to be more efficient and innovative (Yahoo! Finance).

Truth struggles against propaganda and censorship on China’s DeepSeek AI / January 28, 2025

The answers that China’s DeepSeek AI app gave to several questions revealed the app’s foundation in CCP communist ideology and propaganda, while other AI apps offered more thorough answers on issues like Uyghur Muslims, Taiwan, and Tiananmen Square (VOA).  

China’s Economy Stumbles in Sign Rebound Hinges on More Stimulus / January 26, 2025

Although China met its 5% growth target in 2024, factory activity and construction and services all fell in January after a brief uptick prompted by government stimulus in the fourth quarter of 2024.  Other economic indicators were also down.  One economist worried that the economy in China will stall unless the government does more to refuel the economy (Yahoo! Finance).

Donald Trump Fires "Tremendous Tariff-Maker" Warning at India, China / January 28, 2025

As Donald Trump threatened to strike tariffs on foreign countries during his campaign, his threat continues now that he is the US President.  On Tuesday, he cited an economic imbalance in trade between the US and countries like India, China, and Brazil, acknowledging that these countries are looking out for themselves, but also stating that the US will now do the same for itself (NDTV World).

As Trump's tariffs loom, analysts say China is better prepared for a trade war with the U.S. / January 29, 2025

Although President Trump’s 10% tariffs against China are expected to go into effect on Saturday, China today is not the same China Trump dealt with eight years ago during his first presidential term.  China has advanced considerably in resources and technology even from that time.  While China’s officials may be concerned about Trump’s trade war, they may be in a better position to weather the onslaught (CBS News).

Tithing as Proof of Citizenship / January 27, 2025

In China, house churches and their pastors are often charged with fraud for accepting offerings as the government seeks to end “unauthorized” religious organizations.  Being unregistered is technically similar to not applying as a 501-C-3 non-profit organization in the US, except that in China, registering as a church also hands over control of much of the church’s functions to the government’s regulations.  Nevertheless, Chinese Christians see giving as a function of their citizenship in the kingdom of God (China Partnership).

 TikTokers say goodbye to their 'Chinese spy' and move to RedNote / January 17,2025

Influencers on TikTok—one even in tears—lament the anticipated ban on the popular website as they transfer their platforms to RedNote.  Seemingly disregarding the US government’s concern about TikTok’s potential spying tactics, the influencers dubbed TikTok as their “Chinese Spy” as they said goodbye to the lifeline they believed Tiktok was for them (BBC).

TikTok refugees are pouring to Xiaohongshu. What to know about the RedNote app / January 17, 2025

To protest the possible end of TikTok, millions of TikTok users moved over to Xiahongshu, called “RedNote” in English, but a translation of the Chinese name is “Little Red Book.”  In a rare occurrence, Chinese and Western users found themselves on the same app, even flooding the Chinese language app with a heavy dose of English communicators.  The Chinese host users were welcoming and frien/dly (ABC News).

Trump wants to visit China again after he takes office / January 18, 2025

Then President-elect Donald Trump announced that he hopes to visit China again within the first 100 days of his presidency.  He spoke with President Xi Jinping on Friday last week, stating that the conversation was good, and that he was hopeful that both he and Xi would make the world “peaceful and safe” (Fox News).

Fareed Zakaria weighs in on Donal Trump’s relationship with China / January 17, 2025

Fareed Zakaria claims that Donald Trump has the ability to change his mind about foreign policy at will, unlike most other presidents and politicians, using Trump’s past and present approaches to TikTock as an example.  He cites Elon Musk’s seemingly ever-present advisory position with Trump as the possible source for Trump’s turnabout on China (CNN World).

Xi and Putin discuss relations with Trump, Ukraine and Taiwan / January 21, 2025

Presidents Xi and Putin held a ninety-minute video call on Tuesday to discuss global matters, including how to build ties with the newly inaugurated President Trump in their vision of a multi-polar world (VOA).

US-China Relations in the Trump 2.0 Era: A Timeline / January 22, 2025

China Briefing created a timeline of events surrounding the new Trump Presidency and its relationship with China, but the “timeline” covers only three days, marking the speed at which these events occurred.  Trump threatened tariffs in order to quell the fentanyl crisis, but halted a Biden administration law to ban TikTok; Trump threatened to regain control of the Panama Canal, and Elon Musk met with Chinese VP Han Zheng to discuss US-China business relations (China Briefing).

Trump says China controls the Panama Canal — but here's how it really works / January 23, 2025

President Trump’s comments about the Panama Canal are being met with criticism as China’s operations at the Canal involve two ports on each side of the canal, not the operating control of the canal itself, which Panama controls.  However, should a military conflict occur between the US and China, those ports operated by a Chinese company could threaten the “neutral” stance the canal boasts about, threatening to cut off US navy ships and cargo from using the canal (NBC News).

China calls for 'win-win' solution to trade tensions / January 21, 2025

Ding Xuexiang, China’s Vice Premier, spoke at the World Economic Forum this week, criticizing potential trade wars and calling for “win-win” solutions for global trade.  This comes as President Trump took office again with threats of tariffs among his policy plans (BBC).

Made in China 2025 'hugely successful' despite US efforts to thwart plan / January 21, 2025

In 2015, China began an economic campaign dubbed “Made in China” to improve the quality and complexity of its manufacturing industries.  Ten years later, BYD, one of China’s largest automakers, outpaced Tesla as the world’s biggest EV auto manufacturers.  China now leads the world or is the runner-up in many advanced technologies, despite the West’s efforts to impede China’s innovation (ABC News—Australia).

China executes 2 it says killed at least 43 in car rampage, stabbing / January 20, 2025

China executed two men convicted of multiple murders on Monday.  Fan Weiqu drove his vehicle into a crowd outside a stadium, killing thirty-five, and Xu Jiajin stabbed twenty-five people outside of his vocational school, killing eight.  China is believed to execute more convicted felons than the rest of the world combined (CBS News).

'Hell on earth': China deportation looms for Uyghurs held in Thailand / January 20, 2025

Uyghur detainees in Thailand are enduring horrible conditions—unsanitary living quarters, overcrowding, dirty drinking water and poor medical care—as they continue to wait for Thailand to allow them safe passage to Turkey, but pressure from China is keeping them in Thailand under the constant threat of being deported back to China (BBC News).

A Joint Statement from Chinese Christians: Against Persecution on Charges of Fraud / January 16, 2025

Since 2018, when China’s government approved “new religious regulations,” persecution against Christians has increased.  About a dozen house churches have been scrutinized for the offerings its members give, as the government sees this as “fraud” under the new regulations.  But a Reformed church issued a statement in defense of unregistered house churches based on biblical principles, historical tradition and even Chinese domestic law to justify the practice of giving offerings (China Partnership).

UK and China selling new economic relationship as a win-win - but it's complicated / January 11, 2025

Great Britain is working to improve economic relations with China, but the complicated geo-political realities and China’s cyberattacks against England continue to breed caution and concern on the road to that goal (Sky News).

Reeves accused of abandoning principles over China in bid to save UK economy / January 11, 2025

Critics of British Chancellor Rachel Reeves spoke strongly against her visit to China and her efforts to work with China on trade agreements while the British economy is tanking.  They claim Reeves is willing to break her “golden rule” on borrowing limits, and pushing human rights concerns to the side, all for more cooperation with the CCP (Independent).

Even some Five Eyes now want better relations with China / January 15, 2025

As President-elect Trump approaches his second inauguration next week, some US allies are re-thinking their alliance with the US as new, liberal administrations take the helm in places like England and Australia (SCMP). 

US Investment Ban on China: What it Means Now That it’s in Effect / January 15, 2025

“The US has introduced a stringent investment ban on China, effective January 2025. These restrictions focus on sensitive technologies like AI, semiconductors, and quantum computing and require detailed due diligence. These regulations will significantly impact US investors and Chinese firms, especially in the affected sectors, reshaping US-China economic relations” (China Briefing).   

Protests turn violent in China after student falls to his death / January 11, 2025

Protests erupted on Monday over a teenage student who died from falling from a balcony window at a technical school in the northwestern Shaanxi region of China on January 2nd.  Evidently, the death was ruled a suicide, but eye witnesses and unusual circumstances have many, including the deceased’s family, rejecting the officially reported cause of death (CNN).

China exports accelerate amid trade tensions, imports surprise / January 13, 2025

With the threat of increased tariffs from the incoming US Trump administration, exports from China and imports to China increased 10% and 1% respectively in December in an effort to get goods delivered before any additional tariffs are set in 2025 (Reuters).

China-Russia 2024 trade value hits record high - Chinese customs / January 12, 2025

Trade between Russia and China hit a new record level in dollar terms in 2024, reaching 1.74 trillion yuan ($237 billion), with modest gains in 2024 compared with the colossal increases in trade between the two countries in 2023.  President Xi and Putin hailed their close relationship in New Year’s greetings to one another (Reuters).

OpenAI reveals AI policy proposals to best China, protect kids: ‘America must win’ / January 13, 2025

Chris Lehane, Open AI's Vice President of Global Affairs told Fox News Digital that the US must responsibly develop the legal framework for a successful development of AI so that the billions of dollars of investment monies available will go to AI development in a democratic environment, as in the US, rather than in an autocratic environment, like China or Russia (Fox News).

China mulls potential sale of TikTok US to Musk / January 13, 2025

With TikTok facing a deadline to be sold to a US buyer or face a ban by January 19th, Bloomberg News reported that the popular social app could be sold to Elon Musk.  A TikTok spokesperson called the proposed deal “pure fiction.”  With a Musk purchase, both Musk and X could operate TikTok US together (Reuters).

Philippines alarmed after China sends ‘monster ship’ to disputed shoal / January 14, 2025

China sent its largest Coast Guard vessel to the Scarborough Shoal on Tuesday, coming ever closer to the Philippine coast.  Since it seized the Shoal in 2012, China has been maintaining a presence around the Shoal that the Philippines still claims belongs to them (NBC News).

China reportedly building 'D-Day'-style barges as fears of Taiwan invasion rise / January 13, 2025

Naval News reports that China is building at least three barges nearly 400 feet long at its Guangzhou shipyard.  Such barges could assist the Chinese military by providing landing access on solid ground, making an invasion of Taiwan more possible (Fox News).

Trump's Greenland bid stirs debate in China about what to do with Taiwan / January 15, 2025

President-elect Trump’s comments about purchasing Greenland, adding Canada as a US state and gaining control of the Panama Canal made for much conversation on Chinese social media, with many saying that if Trump takes Greenland, China should take Taiwan, even if the two scenarios don’t compare (Reuters). 

Trump's pick for top diplomat Rubio urges China not to destabilize Asia / January 16, 2025

Florida Senator Marco Rubio is likely on the way to confirmation as President-elect Trump’s Secretary of State.  Rubio warned China to not destabilize the Indo-Pacific region.  Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun warned the US to stop getting involved in China’s internal affairs regarding Taiwan (Kyodo News).

Yunnan, New Update on Brother Chang Hao: Out of Jail, but Under Heavy Surveillance / January 9, 2025

Chang Hao, a Reformed Christian preacher, was arrested and detained for twelve days last October.  Since his release, the Chinese government has installed video cameras to monitor Chang and his church members.  False “house cleaners” also came to his house to harass him.  Customarily, police will go to members’ homes, threatening to take their phones if they don’t delete Bible and Christian apps from their phones (Bitter Winter).

Hubei, CCP Salutes January 1 with a Party Denouncing “Cults and Illegal Religion” / January 6, 2025

While January 1st is not a national holiday in China, the Western tradition is gaining popularity, with Chinese citizens and organizations creating celebrations for the day.  The CCP in Tongshan County, Hubei Province, created an “educational celebration” teaching observers to watch for and report any sign of “xie-jiao,” or illegal religion, and instead, to promote science (Bitter Winter). 

What is HMPV? China reportedly monitoring surge in respiratory virus cases / January 4, 2025

Photos and videos online showing crowded hospitals in China sparked concern last week as HMPV (Human metapneumovirus) cases in China have spiked, even though, generally, HMPV cases are relatively mild.  The virus usually strikes children, but the elderly and immune-compromised people should be cautious (Fox News).

HMPV cases in India: Is it a new virus? How is it similar to Covid-19? / January 7, 2025

Despite the global concern of another pandemic possibly emanating out of China, specialists in India, while being cautious, nevertheless state that HMPV is a common seasonal virus, and as of January 6th, there were only 5 cases of the virus in all of India (Mint).

China says 126 dead after 7.1-magnitude earthquake strikes Tibet / January 6, 2025

A 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Dingri County in a mountainous region in Tibet, killing 126 and injuring another 130 people.  Firefighters, medical workers, and disaster relief supplies were dispatched to the area by the government.  The area is prone to earthquakes.  More serious quakes struck the Himalayan region in 2008 and 2015, killing  70,000 and 9,000 people respectively (NBC News).  

Direct high-speed train links northwest China's Shaanxi with Hong Kong / January 5, 2025

A new high-speed train began to run service between Xi’an, the capital of China’s northwest Shaanxi Province, and Hong Kong.  A trip to either destination takes 11 hours (Xinhua News).

China's Xi Jinping says corruption is the 'biggest threat' to the Communist Party / January 6, 2025

Addressing the Congress of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), the country’s top anti-graft watchdog, President Xi declared that corruption was the greatest threat to the Communist Party.  The speech, President Xi’s corruption campaign, and the Congress were all meant to drive home the message that the government will increase its efforts to root out corruption from all of Chinese society (NBC News).

How China's national liquor greased the wheels of corruption among Communist elites / January 8, 2025

Moutai is China’s premier alcoholic drink, a favorite among government officials and businessmen.  But the expensive liquor is also used to favor those seeking to obtain an executive position.  Once in that seat, it is expected that one aids those supporters make money or achieve an agenda.  Thus, the corruption sinks in (VOA).

China: Jailed human rights lawyer’s failed appeal highlights fear of dissent / January 6, 2025

In mid-April of 2023, human rights lawyer Yu Wensheng and his wife, Xu Yan, were taken into custody for “picking quarrels and provoking trouble,” but the charges were changed to “inciting subversion of state power” in October of that year.  Since then, they have been imprisoned as their health deteriorates from the conditions and potential abuse.  Yu’s appeal was rejected this month.  The case reveals the CCP’s fear of dissent and the freedom of expression (Amnesty International).   

The 'new China' in Thailand: ‘If you want hope, you have to leave’ – video / January 7, 2025

Chinese artists, the avant-garde, and those seeking alternative lifestyles, fed up with the stresses of competitive capitalism and the increasing authoritarianism of the CCP, are finding new lives abroad in places like Chang Mai, Thailand.  They are returning to farming and simpler lifestyles, and eschewing the drive for money.  With China’s economic uncertainty, others may join them (The Guardian).

China hurries to shore up sliding yuan and stock markets /  January  6, 2025

China’s stock markets and central bank sought to keep the yuan from weakening on Monday, all because President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on Chinese imports unless the Chinese government halts the flow of fentanyl base products to the US and meets other demands from the coming Trump administration.  On Monday, the yuan fell to its weakest value in 16 months (Reuters).

China bets on kitchen appliances to boost economy / January 9, 2025

In an effort to boost the economy in China, the government has offered “trade-in schemes” for people to purchase new items, like TVs, phones, and even cars, at a discount.  Now, people can trade in new microwaves and other kitchen appliances, as well.  Some economists say, however, that even this may not be enough to get the economy running again (BBC).

China's tumbling bond yields intensify 'Japanification' risks / January 8, 2025

China’s long-term bond yields recently sank below Japan’s Government Bond Yield, marking yet another sign that China’s economy is in serious straits, and is risking “Japanification.”  Japan is currently crawling out of a decades-long economic disaster, and China may be falling into one (Reuters). 

A Xi appearance at Trump’s inauguration would give China the upper hand / January 7, 2025

The Hongmen Banquet, a Chinese legend from 206 B.C., could serve as a historical example for President Xi to consider attending President-elect Trump’s inauguration, not to subdue the host as the legend goes, but to turn the tables and gain the upper hand, according to this SCMP editor.  Even if Xi doesn’t gain the upper hand, if he can work out a deal for peace with Trump, the world would win (CNA).

U.S. Defense Dept. says Tencent and other Chinese companies have ties to China's military / January 7, 2025

Chinese companies Tencent, SenseTime, and battery producer CATL were all added to a list of companies that supposedly are involved with the Chinese military, according to the US Defense Department, meaning that they cannot have business deals with the Defense Dept. beginning in June of 2026. Tencent’s stock value fell over 7% on Tuesday due to the announcement (CBS News).

China Deals Blow to Putin's 'Shadow Fleet' / January 8, 2025

The State-owned Shandong Port Group prohibited some Russian oil tankers from docking at its ports in the eastern Shandong Province in response to sanctions placed on those ships by the US.  To subvert those sanctions, Russian President Putin created a “Shadow Fleet,” but even some of those ships made the list and were not allowed to dock (Newsweek).

China’s Xi highlights ‘world peace’ in New Year’s message to Russia’s Putin / December 31, 2024

President Xi Jinping underscored China’s strong relationship with Russia and President Putin in his New Year’s address, stating that China is striving for “world peace.”  Xi and Putin have become close allies on the world stage, to the point that some NATO representatives claim China is Russia’s “enabler” in its war with Ukraine (Al Jazeera).

Xi warns 'no one can stop' unification with Taiwan in chilling New Year's Eve threat / December 31, 2024

In his New Year address, President Xi warned that China’s unification with Taiwan is inevitable and that no one can stop it from happening.  Since Taiwan’s newly elected President, Lai Ching-te, took office in May, China has held three large military exercises around Taiwan, surrounding the island with warships and military aircraft (Daily Mail).

China is visa-free for most of Europe, but not this EU trio. Why? / December 29, 2024

While tourists from thirty-eight countries—thirty-two from the EU--can enjoy thirty or more days in China visa-free, Sweden, Lithuania and the Czech Republic are not on that list.  They have been relegated to a list of other countries, like Britain and the US, to a 10-day visa-free visits to China.  Support for Ukraine and Taiwan are among the reasons for China’s snub on those EU countries (SCMP).

White House says 9th telecoms company has been hacked by Chinese espionage / December 28, 2024

The White House announced last week that a 9th telecommunications company had been hacked by the Chinese hacking scheme called the Salt Typhoon that has mainly targeted political figures in the US, but also included dozens of nations worldwide.  The US government plans to meet in the coming weeks to respond to the cyber assault.  China denies any involvement (Fox News).

‘China has many ways in which it can close down the Panama Canal’ / December 28, 2024

China has a comprehensive hold on its ability to close down the Panama Canal if it chooses to do so, according to China expert Gordon Chang.  It controls ports on both sides of the canal as well as four bridges over the canal.  Incoming President Trump plans to address the issue when he is in office (Fox News).

China unveils new assault ship and futuristic fighter jets / December 30, 2024

China's first Type 076 amphibious assault ship, the Sechuan, left the harbor in Shanghai on Sunday, demonstrating the latest example of China’s quest to modernize its navy, now the largest in the world.  Recently, photos of a new stealth fighter aircraft had been posted online, as well (VOA).

China makes move to assert territorial claim, creates new county in Indian territory / December 28, 2024

Representatives from China and India have met frequently since October to discuss border disputes that have been ongoing for decades.  However, just ten days after they last met, China announced that it has created two new counties for China on thousands of square kilometers of land that India had claimed for itself (Deccan Herald).

China sanctions 7 companies over US military assistance to Taiwan / December 29, 2024

In response to the Biden Administration’s announcement of more than $500 million in aid to Taiwan, China placed sanctions on seven companies in the US, Canada, and Australia, and sanctioned some of their top executives, as well.  China blames the US for increasing the tension over the Taiwan issue (KXAN).

China Builds Over 200 New Prisons As Xi Jinping Ups Anti-Corruption Drive / December 29, 2024

Since 2017, China’s government has built over 200 new prisons or has enlarged existing prisons as President Xi’s anti-corruption campaign targets an ever-increasing number of suspected criminals. The prisons, called Liuzhi centers, are intended to hold prisoners for six, and possibly eight, months without legal council or family visits.  Critics of Xi’s anti-corruption plan and the Liuzhi operating philosophy charge the campaign of abusing power and creating forced confessions (NDTV World).

China court hands teen life prison sentence for classmate's "particularly cruel" murder / December 30, 2024

A teenage boy was sentenced to life in prison in Hebei province after being found guilty of murdering a 13-year-old classmate in a particularly cruel way.  Two other teens were also sentenced to lesser punishments.  In 2021, China lowered its minimum age limit for criminal responsibility from fourteen to twelve.  This is seen as the first case where the new limit applies (CBS News).

US Treasury hacked: Are China and the US stepping up their cyberwar? / January 1, 2025

The US Treasury accused China of infiltrating its internet system in December, marking the latest tit-for-tat charge in espionage between the two countries.  Just weeks earlier, China accused the US of hacking two Chinese technology firms (Al Jazeera).

Migration from China’s countryside to cities to be a key factor in resource allocation / December 20, 2024

Officially, rural citizens account for about half of China’s 1.4 billion people, although there is a large migration of rural dwellers moving to the larger cities. Government planners need to take the migration factor into account as they plan to allocate resources and build infrastructure; otherwise, they will be “sprinkling pepper” with those valuable resource (SCMP).

China’s record farm yields see fertilizer on its way out as advanced tech is in / December 19, 2024

While China’s crop production of grains like wheat, corn and rice have increased over the last few years, it’s use of fertilizer has also steadily declined over the same period of time.  Targeted use of fertilizer has helped, but other technologies have also played a part in China’s agricultural modernization. Greenhouses in the desert are projected to produce ten times more rice than it has in 2024 (SCMP).

China Says US Is 'Playing with Fire' After Latest Military Aid for Taiwan / December 22, 2024

After President Biden authorized $571 million in military aid to Taiwan, China warned the US that it was “playing with fire” for supporting Taiwan with such aid.  The US Defense Dept. also stated that it had approved an additional $295 million in aid.  Back in September, Biden had also approved $567 million in aid to Taiwan (Newsmax).

Expert Gordon Chang warns China wants to go to war and 'kill Americans' / December 21, 2024

China expert Gordon Chang advises that we could be on the edge of conflict with China as is building its nuclear missile stockpile with the intention of risking war with the US.  He says the current administration doesn’t recognize the threat, but he’s unsure what President-elect Trump will do about the situation (Fox News).

Xi stresses progress in advancing "one country, two systems" at Macao celebration / December 21, 2024

President Xi was in Macao last Friday to mark the 25th anniversary of Macao’s “return to the motherland,” and to inaugurate the sixth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region.  His speech was full of praise for the region’s development and exemplary participation in the “one country, two systems” political philosophy.  Yet, the motherland’s needs seem to overwhelm the region’s autonomy (Xinhua).

First Kuliang Forum commemorates enduring bond between Chinese and American people / December 22, 2024

 President Xi has promoted cultural exchanges between Chinese citizens and citizens of other countries for most of his years in power.  The Kuliang Forum, held last Friday, celebrated the bond between Chinese and Americans, inspired by Milton Gardner, who spent ten years of his childhood in Kuliang, only to return to it just before he died (The Global Times).

China takes steps against Canadian institutions, individuals over Uyghurs, Tibet / December 22, 2024

China froze the assets of two human rights groups and a number of Canadian citizens, barring them from entering China.  The two groups are the  Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project and the Canada-Tibet Committee (VOA).

The Australian dollar could be heading to a 20-year low, on risks of China, Trump, slow growth / December 23, 2024

The “Aussie Battler,” that is, the Australian dollar, is enduring a sluggish low, currently valued at about 60 US cents, but it may sink lower to 50 cents due to Australia’s close economic relationship with China, Trump’s threatened tariffs and an economic slow down in Australia itself (ABC Australia). 

Chinese man in school attack gets suspended death sentence / December 23, 2024

The Chinese man who drove his car into a crowd of young schoolchildren received a “suspended death sentence” for his crime.  However, many on social media criticized the sentence as being too lenient.  The incident occurred in mid-November when two other similar attacks also occurred (BBC).

Japan to ease visa requirements, agrees on top China diplomat visit / December 24, 2024

Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya was in Beijing this week for talks to increase collaboration between Japan and China.  Japan plans to ease visa agreements to allow for longer visits by Chinese tourists to Japan.  The Foreign Minister also brought up concerns about China’s military aggression in the region, as well as a Chinese buoy placed in Japanese waters (Kyodo News).

China Flies Brand New Stealth Fighter Jet, Believed To Be 6th Generation / December 26, 2024

China has developed a new version of its stealth fighter jet, the Chengdu J-20, as video of its flight reached social media.  The flight took place close to the Indian border, raising concern about how India might counteract an offensive brought on by the jet (NDTV).

China approves Tibet mega-dam that could generate more power than Three Gorges/ December 26, 2024

China plans to build the world’s largest infrastructure project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in the Tibet Autonomous Region, creating a hydroelectric dam that could produce 300 billion kilowatt hours of electricity per year, three times larger than the Three Gorges Dam, currently the largest dam in the world.  The Yarlung Tsangpo River drops 25,000 feet from the Tibetan Plateau to the border of India (SCMP).

How China's satellite megaprojects are challenging Elon Musk's Starlink / December 15, 2024

SpaceX’s Starlink currently has about 7,000 satellites in orbit to provide internet access to underserved areas around the world and hopes to increase that to 42,000 satellites.  China hopes to come close to Starlink’s goal with 38,000 satellites.  Starlink poses a threat to China’s censorship ideology, and satellite service is seen as a military necessity, as well (NBC10 Philadelphia).

All eyes on Prince Andrew after alleged Chinese spy controversy / December 15, 2024

After Britain’s National Security Service, MI5, red-flagged a close Chinese associate of Prince Andrew, the Prince’s favor in the royal family is now in question more seriously than it had been.  Andrew’s relationship with the Chinese person, dubbed H6, could have allowed China to interfere in British government matters (The Guardian).

China spy efforts happening in plain view, says ex-Tory leader / December 16, 2024

Some British officials are claiming that Prince Andrew’s Chinese associate known as H6 may just be one of many Chinese spies working in plain sight, influencing policies in government, business, and even education.  The United Work Front Department, an extension of the CCP, has been known to be working in England for some time (BBC).

United Front: China's 'magic weapon' caught in a spy controversy / December 18, 2024

China’s United Front has a long history in China.  It was part of Mao Zedong’s successful overthrow of China’s government before 1949 as it coalesced the most important social structures to favor the Communist Party.  Now, President Xi is using the United Front to influence Chinese citizens globally, as well as influencing global rhetoric to favor China and its policies (BBC).

China warns UK ‘to stop creating trouble’ amid row over spy linked to Prince Andrew / December 17, 2024

China bit back at the UK’s accusations that China was infiltrating UK government policies and institutions as controversy continues to swirl around Yang Tengbo, a close confidant of Prince Andrew, and an alleged spy.  China accused certain UK politicians of being unrealistic and irresponsible.  But China’s United Front Work Dept. has 40,000 “employees” in nearly every sector of UK society (The Independent).

China Abductee Rejects 3 Flats, Cars From Wealthy Parents To Stay Humble / December 15, 2024

In 1999, at just three months old, Xie Qingshuai was abducted in China, and his wealthy parents spent over $100,000 to try to find him.  Reunited, finally, on December 1st of last year, Xie has spent the last year adjusting to his new “rags to riches” reality but has decided to earn his own way, rejecting his father’s generous offers.  He cites a popular Chinese comedy from 2018, Hello, Mr. Billionaire, as an example of what not to do (NDTV).

China bank lending rises far less than expected, more policy steps needed / December 13, 2024

While China’s financial leaders attempted to boost the sluggish economy with more stimuli beginning in September, November’s credit demand failed to meet analysts' expectations.  Other markers in November also missed the mark.  Now, tariff threats from President-elect Donald Trump have the Politburo creating policies to fend off the effects of those tariffs (Reuters).

China retail sales slow as consumers hold back, while home prices fall /  December

While Chinese consumers increasingly utilized government subsidies to replace home appliances and cars, overall consumer spending in November was down, and home sale prices also fell.  Consumers are concerned about employment, low property prices, and low incomes, so they are unwilling to increase their spending (AP News).

Once again, China pushes for economic stimulus, hoping for a different result / December 16, 2024

President Xi and the CCP have repeatedly tried various stimulus measures to reinvigorate China’s painfully poor economy, but their efforts appear to be in vain, according to this article.  The CCP’s strict regulation and control of the private sector is at the root of China’s problems, but the CCP, originally formed to support the less fortunate, doesn’t seem willing to let go of its state-centered philosophy, hurting the poor the most (Atlantic Council).

Alibaba to sell China department store chain Intime for $1.3 bln loss / December 17, 2024

Chinese mega-company Alibaba said on Tuesday that it is selling its department store chain, Intime, and taking a huge loss on the deal in order to continue its restructuring process.  It bought Intime for twice that loss in 2017.  The sale of the store chain is to a consortium of some of Intime’s managers and the Chinese company, Youngor Fashion (Reuters).

Uyghur fighters in Syria vow to come after China next /  December 15, 2024

The Turkistan Islamic Party, a Uyghur resistance group based in Syria for the last decade, played a part in the downfall of Saad’s government in Syria this month.  Made up of mostly exiled Uyghurs from China, the group now has its sites set on liberating its people from China, creating an independent state for the Uyghurs in China (The Telegraph).

Did Chinese citizen charged with flying drone over base commit 'more offenses?' / December 16, 2024

The US is investigating whether Yinpiao Zhou, a Chinese citizen and a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., committed more serious crimes than flying an unregistered drone over national defense space.  Yinpiao allegedly took photos of the Vandenberg Space Force military base and was arrested on December 9th while trying to fly to China (Fox News).

Undocumented Chinese men baffled by Trump's reported plans to deport them first / December 19, 2024

As President-elect Donald Trump threatens to deport undocumented migrants back to their native countries, illegal Chinese migrants are concerned that they are apparently at the top of Trump’s deportation list as a matter of national security.  Citing support from Chinese language media, one undocumented migrant says he is following a Chinese motto: “Follow the correct and law-abiding path” (NBC News).

Dwarfed by China in shipbuilding, US looks to build its defense base / December 8, 2024

The US is significantly behind in its shipbuilding ability compared to China, which currently has the largest navy in the world.  According to US officials, the US shipbuilding industry has been lagging since the 1980s, and would have difficulty keeping the fleet competitive in a prolonged conflict with China.  Relying on allies could help the US if they commit to the cause (Defense News).

DHS Conducts Removal Flight to the People’s Republic of China / December 11, 2024

The Dept. of Homeland Security said that it conducted its fourth “large-frame charter removal flight” of Chinese nationals without a legal basis for being in the US in the last six months.  This report states that in fiscal year 2024, DHS has removed or returned 742,000 people to their native countries  (Homeland Security).

US House to vote to provide $3 billion to remove Chinese telecoms equipment / December 7, 2024

In 2019, the US Congress urged US telecoms carriers to purge their systems of Chinese-made equipment over potential security risks.  This week, the House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on a $3 billion defense bill to help carriers complete the task.  Previously, $1.9 had been set aside for the task that came to be known as “rip and replace” (VOA).

Trump has invited China's Xi Jinping to his inauguration / December 12, 2024

President-elect Donald Trump has invited President Xi to his inauguration in January, although there is no certainty that Xi will attend the ceremony.  It is precedent for newly elected presidents to invite such dignitaries to the inauguration, and inviting a potential adversary reveals that Trump is willing to maintain an open relationship with Xi, says Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s new press secretary (NBC News).

Taiwan reports near doubling of Chinese warships nearby / December 7, 2024

As Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te returned home to Taiwan after a Pacific tour that included stops in Hawaii and Guam, China increased the number of its warships around Taiwan from 8 to 14 between Saturday and Sunday.  China has held two “war games” around Taiwan so far this year.  Four air balloons were also detected over the Taiwan Strait (VOA).

China sends largest naval fleet in decades to region, threat level severe, Taiwan says / December 9, 2024

Taiwan was on high alert this week as 90 Chinese Coast Guard ships had positioned themselves north of the island from Japan through the Taiwan Strait and even south of Taiwan.  On Tuesday, Taiwan counted 47 military aircraft operating around the island.  China was “constructing” two walls of defense, one along the island chain that includes Taiwan, and another further into the Pacific (Reuters).

China vows ‘more proactive’ fiscal stimulus measures, looser monetary policy / December 9, 2024

China’s leaders are forging ahead in their fight to restore the economy as they look ahead to 2025, promising forward-looking stimulus measures and easing monetary policies.  Meetings this week will develop those plans, but the results won’t be public until March.  President Xi commented, “We must….actively build an external environment that is favorable to us” (CNBC).

China Politburo policy shift spurs surge in stocks, bonds / December 9, 2024

Chinese stocks rose upon the news from China’s politburo that they will ease monetary policies in 2025.  The change in policy direction seems to follow the pattern set in 2010 when the government stepped in to re-ignite the economy (Reuters).

Chinese wedding customs / November 14, 2024

While many Chinese weddings include typical Western traditions, there are plenty of Chinese traditional customs that are “musts” in Chinese weddings.  Cake vouchers, wedding games (that could become dangerous!), pre-wedding hair combing ceremonies, and kids jumping on the bridal bed are just a few of the unique customs one might find in a Chinese wedding celebration (SCMP).

Nvidia Stock Falls as China Opens Anti-Monopoly Probe / December 9, 2024

Nvidia Stock fell on Monday as China launched an anti-monopoly charge against the company for its acquisition of Mellanox Technologies in 2020.  China’s anti-monopoly law forbids companies from discriminating against Chinese firms.  Nvidia also has an anti-trust case in US courts, as well (Investors’ Business Daily).

China blasts US arms sale to Taiwan, President Lai's US transit / November 30, 2024

The US State Department finalized a sale of more that $350 million in arms to Taiwan last Friday, just hours before Taiwan’s President, Lai Ching-te departed on a trip taking him to Hawaii and Guam.  China fiercely condemned both the sale and the US’ approval of Lai’s trip  to US territories (Reuters).

China bans exports to US of gallium, germanium, antimony in response to sanctions / December 3, 2024

China announced new restrictions on exports of various minerals to the US in response to the US’ move to add more than 140 Chinese companies to its “entity list,” that is, a list of Chinese companies that can’t receive advanced technological imports from Western tech companies.  China is the largest producer of many of these minerals, although the US has its own deposits it could be mining, but currently isn’t doing so (ABC News).

After China's mineral export ban, how else could it respond to U.S. chip curbs? / December 3, 2024

As tensions continue to rise in the trade war between China and the US, China could employ other means to frustrate the US and its efforts to contain China’s technological advancements.  Security reviews of products made by US manufacterers, slowing down customs clearances, and “unreliable entity list” and “anti-foreign sanctions” laws already in place could all be used to counter the US (Reuters).

World's Largest Gold Deposit Worth $80 Billion Discovered in China / November 29, 2024

China’s state mediar reported a discovery of more than 1000 tons of gold—the largest ever found—between 2,000 and 3,000 meters underground in the central Hunan Province in China.  Already the world’s largest producer of gold, China sees this deposit as a further way of strengthening its resource securityd (Newsweek).

Biden travels to Africa where policies were ‘over-promised and under-delivered' / December 2, 2024

President Biden’s trip to Africa to hi-lite his administration’s successes in development projects is being overshadowed by China’s ubiquitous presence in the continent and its decade-long efforts to invest, develop and control much of Africa’s “critical raw materials,” or CRMs.  While numerous Biden officials have visited the continent, US involvement in Africa has been lackluster (Fox News).

Chinese government moves to cover up deadly ‘revenge against society’ attacks / November 30, 2024

Although China has suffered nearly ten attacks labeled “revenge against society” in the last few months, China’s state media and government have gone to great lengths to bloCck both reporting on the events and public displays of mourning over the victims of the attacks.  Many are speculating that the attacks are in response to increasing poverty and strict government controls, but Chinese media has reported that “personal issues” prompted many of the attacks (news.com.au).

"Go Find Another Sucker": Trump's Big Warning For India, China, Russia / December 1, 2024

If President-elect Donald Trump has a weapon in his hand to reign in countries wandering away from the US dollar as the standard currency in trading, that weapon is the tariff.  In a reference to a recent BRICS conference and approval of establishing a new monetary currency, Trump said he plans to place tariffs up to 100% against countries that drop the dollar as its trading currency (NDTV World).

America’s nuclear submarine crisis on a collision course with China / December 2, 2024

COVID-19, supply chain shortages, inflation and labor shortages are among the reasons the US Navy is behind in submarine production and completing repairs.  Currenlty, the Navy has 66 nuclear-powered submarines, but only 40 are operationally ready.  Both China and Russia are strengthening their submarine arsenal (Fox News).

"Very unique" Russian submarine spotted in the South China Sea; Philippines responds / December 2, 2024

While the passage of a Russian submarine through the South China Sea is legal and not unusual, the Philippine military was alarmed by the sub’s presence about 80 nautical miles from its territory due to its unusual type, measuing more than 240 feet long and carrying a load of long-range missiles.  Russia and China’s war game exercises have occurred all along the western Pacific, from Malaysia all the way to the Aleutian Islands (CBS News).  

Illegal immigrant from China shipped weapons to North Korea from California: DOJ / December 3, 2024

An illegal immigrant from China has been charged with exporting US firearms and ammunition to China, which were then sent to North Korea, allegedly to be used in an attack against South Korea, or so the defendant thought.  Evidently, the North Korean government paid him millions of dollars to smuggle the weapons out of the US.(Fox News).

Losses in China lead to $5 billion charge for GM as it cuts the value of its assets / December 4, 2024

GM’s joint ventures in China have struggled to be profitable in the Chinese market this year, so the company is restructuring its businesses in China with the hope that they will be more profitable in 2025.  Foreign automakers in China have been struggling against domestic carmakers like BYD, who have increased their product quality and have the advantage of government subsidies to competitively undercut foreign vehicle prices (AP News).

How Xi Jinping is going back to Confucius to define China’s future / November 24, 2024

While the West has struggled with the disintegration of its history through various social and political groups denouncing Western values, President Xi has led a strong nationalist movement in China, even fusing modern Communist philosophy with ancient Confucianism, giving Communism an even stronger legitimacy as a governing philosophy.  The “Confucian Canon” is the latest project to promote China’s historical roots (SCMP).

Xi's LatAm trip promotes friendship, solidarity, cooperation, development / November 24, 2024

President Xi’s participation in a number of conferences in South America in mid-November was a parade of his strong promotional ideals, including “fairness, justice, openness and inclusiveness,” words that South American countries ready for their turn at development were eager to hear.  “Improving global governance” is Xi’s lofty agenda (The Global Times).

China says top military official suspended, placed under investigation / November 28, 2024

Miao Hua, director of the political work department on the powerful Central Military Commission that oversees the People’s Liberation Army is under investigation for “serious violations of discipline,” the Chinese Ministry of Defense announced on Thursday.  Nearly twenty Chinese officials have thus been removed from their offices for corruption charges over the last year or so (Al Jazeera).

APEC showdown: Xi at the center, Biden on the sidelines / November 24, 2024

President Xi appeared to be running circles around US President Biden at the APEC and G20 summits in South America in mid-November, with Xi taking center stage in two official photos while Biden was relegated to the back row in one photo and didn’t even appear in the second.  Xi spoke in lofty terms and carried a truckload of economic offers while Biden’s offers were considered “outdated and stale” (T-Magazine).

Trump vows tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China on day one / November 26, 2024

In an effort to crack down on illegal immigration and the flow of drugs into the US, President-elect Donald Trump vowed to add a 25% tariff on all goods coming from Canada and Mexico, and an additional 10% tariff on goods from China once he is president.  The tariffs would hit both American consumers as well as the three countries, but those countries could solve the issue by curtailing the flow of migrants and drugs into the US (BBC News).

'Counter to facts and reality': China, Mexico, Canada respond to Trump tariff threats / November 26, 2024

Leaders and representatives from China, Canada, and Mexico all responded negatively to Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on imports from those countries on his first day in office in January.  China rejected the notion that it was exporting fentanyl precursors to the US, and Mexican and Canadian officials warned of the negative impacts of tariffs.  None of them acknowledged the benefits of stopping illegal immigration or curtailing the drug trade (USA Today).

3 Americans detained for years in China have been released / November 27, 2024

The White House announced that three US citizens imprisoned in China have been released and are returning to the US in a prisoner exchange brokered between the Biden administration and China.  No information on who the Chinese prisoners were was given.  In response, the US State Department lowered its travel warning to “level two,” advising travelers to be cautious when traveling to China (PBS News).

Nvidia Slips Again On Post-Earnings Blues, New China Trade War / November 27, 2024

Nvidia stock slipped just below its 50-day average just before Thanksgiving as investor analysts were not very impressed at its third-quarter earnings, and how the threat of a tariff trade war would affect the economy.  Nvidia’s earnings were better than expected but didn’t “wow” investors even though it is still the leader in the tech economy (Investor’s Business Daily).

China’s lonely-heart crisis fuels a growing ‘companionship economy’ / November 17, 2024

As China’s young adults avoid marriage and children, many of them are experiencing loneliness to the degree that they are seeking friendships and even romantic relationships online.  “Companion chat” is a common hashtag as people look for others to simply talk to.  “Otome” games, a romantic storyline-driven concept from Japan, have become big business in China (SCMP).

Eight die in knife rampage as China suffers second mass killing in a week / November 17, 2024

In the latest of a string of violent attacks on Chinese citizens and foreigners, eight people were killed and another seventeen were injured in Yixing, a city in Jiangsu province.  The 22-year-old attacker is allegedly a student who recently failed his exams and was upset about his low-paying factory job (SCMP). 

Car driven into crowd outside China primary school / November 18, 2024

“Taking revenge on society” is the term being used now for an increasing number of attacks against civilians in China.  This week, a man plowed his SUV into a crowd of parents and children outside of a primary school, injuring many, but no life-threatening injuries were reported, fortunately.  This is the third random attack on civilians in China in the last 10 days, and the 19th this year (BBC).

Swarming drones and counter-drone systems dazzle at China’s Zhuhai air show / November 14, 2024

China has learned from Russia’s war with Ukraine that countering advanced drone “swarming” systems had to be a high priority for its military.  At the recent Zhuhai air show, multiple companies displayed their answer to the drone threat: microwave weapons systems that can identify and destroy multiple drones in one shot (SCMP).

Major Chinese Bank Deals Blow to Russia's Economic Lifelines / November 18, 2024

For the last few months, the Bank of China has been blocking financial transactions from countries dealing with Russia if it is suspected that the transaction involved products that could be used by Russia in its war with Ukraine.  Even smaller Chinese banks have blocked transactions since the Bank of China serves as an intermediary for those banks  (Newsweek).

During meeting with Biden, China’s Xi cautions the U.S. to ‘make the wise choice’ / November 16, 2024

Presidents Xi and Biden met at the APEC summit in Peru on Saturday, but Xi’s comments were more directed to President-elect Donald Trump than to President Biden.  Xi stated that China is ready for the new administration, and advised Trump to “keep exploring the right way for two major countries to get along well with each other” (CNBC).

Why is Xi Jinping excited for President Biden to leave office?  November 16, 2024

President Biden made numerous coalitions with East Asian countries to counter China’s growing geopolitical clout, making President Xi a bit frustrated.  By comparison, President Trump’s tariff war caused prices to rise on imports from China, something US citizens didn’t want. Trump’s protectionist philosophy may also allow China to make a move on Taiwan (MSNBC).

China's Xi highlights 'Global South' measures at G20 / November 18, 2024

President Xi took advantage of the G20’s “podium” to announce a raft of measures to boost the economic development of “Global South” countries, which generally include South American, African and Middle Eastern countries.  Xi expects imports from developing countries to China to top $8 trillion by 2030 (VOA).

China, India should not be called developing countries, several Cop29 delegates say / November 19, 2024

Representatives from poorer countries at the Cop29 summit (a conference on Climate Change) in Azerbaijan are objecting to some countries’ status as “developing countries,” such as India and China.  With that status, those countries are not obligated to cut greenhouse gas emissions, nor do they need to support other developing countries financially.  In fact, they can receive financial support, although China has refused to do so (The Guardian).

What is behind Starmer's meeting with China's president? / November 18, 2024

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer became the first British PM to meet with President Xi in six years as he met with China’s leader at the G20 summit in Brazil.  His intent was to foster a better relationship between the UK and China, primarily to boost the British economy (BBC).

Indo-Pacific Commander Gives Unvarnished View of Situation in Region / November 20, 2024

The commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Navy Admiral Samuel Paparo, stated in an interview that China’s military exercises this year grew in size and number, sometimes conducting joint exercises with Russia.  China is the US’s greatest military rival; consequently, Paparo is on a daily watch (US Dept. of Defense).

Development finance veteran urges multilateral response to Trump challenges / November 22, 2024

President-elect Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda, with its tariff threats, may present a challenge to China, but it may also present an opportunity for China to respond to the US by gathering a coalition of countries and financial institutions that would use Chinese currency instead of the US dollar (SCMP). 

Sen. Mark Warner stunned by China's penetration of US phones / November 22, 2024

Democrat Senator Mark Warner stated that he is stunned by the reach and depth of Chinese hackers made into major US phone companies this last summer.  The hackers were able to access some conversations of then-candidate Donald Trump and JD Vance, as well as some democrat officials. The hackers were mainly looking for conversations among senior US officials (Newsmax).

100,000 Chinese students join 50km night-time bike ride for good soup dumplings / November 10, 2024

When four college students made a bike trip to the ancient city of Kaifeng in June to enjoy the city’s popular oversized soup dumplings, their  posts of the trip resonated among other students to the point that last Friday, an estimated 100,000+ students on bikes flooded the roads to the city and overwhelmed the city’s parks and restaurants.  Authorities and universities took action, creating no-bike zones and mandating permission slips for students to leave campus (the Guardian).

Dozens killed in China by driver who rammed car into crowd ahead of army air show / November 12, 2024

A 62-year old man, apparently upset over details of his divorce, rammed his car into a sports complex in Zhuhai, killing thirty five and injuring more than forty others on Monday, just before an annual PLA aviation show in the city.  Posts and inquiries about the incident at the sports complex were scrubbed from social media ahead of the air show (CBS News).

When horror hits China, the first instinct is shut it down / November 12, 2024

Wanting to report on tragic incidents in China, foreign journalists have been met by “staged,” outraged citizens or police blocking their way to the crime scene, which is usually cleaned up within hours of the incident by local authorities.  Part of this strategy is to prevent hype and copycat incidents, but even flowers or memorials to the injured or deceased are not allowed for long (BBC).

From Taiwan to technology, China ponders what's to come under Trump 2.0 / November 9, 2024

President-elect Donald Trump’s unpredictability is China’s challenge as they project what will come in the next four years as Trump takes the helm for a second term.  China’s leadership is projecting stability, but they are also planning more punitive measures if Republicans, not just Trump, step on too many toes in the next dance (NPR).

Would the US defend Taiwan under Trump if China invades? / November 10, 2024

It is difficult to determine what President-elect Trump would do if China invaded Taiwan because Trump has said he wouldn’t allow such a thing to happen in the first place.  He would rather wage an economic war and display military superiority to hold China back.  Trump has often expressed disdain for Taiwan’s apparent lack of financial support for the military aid it gets (Fox News).

China’s president unveils a megaport in Peru, but locals say they’re being left out / November 14, 2024

President Xi was in Lima, Peru, before the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum to celebrate the inauguration of a new Chinese funded megaport in Chancay, Peru, a fishing town north of Lima.  Locals say the new port has destroyed fish breeding grounds and even changed surfing waves and currents due to newly installed breakwaters (AP News).

Biden and Xi will meet in Peru as US-China relations tested again by Trump’s return / November 13, 2024

President Biden will meet with President Xi on Saturday at the APEC forum in Lima, Peru, just a few months from President-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House, presenting new challenges to the troubled relationship  between the two countries.  Biden will press for stability and cooperation as the transition takes place (AP News)

China reasserts South China Sea sovereignty amid Philippine boundary laws / November 10, 2024

After Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr signed two laws on Friday to define its territory around the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, China rejected the move in Manila and reasserted its own claims in the area.  The two countries have been embroiled in skirmishes along the Philippine’s territory for years (Al Jazeera).

Indonesia's new leader calls for collaboration with China before heading to US / November 10, 2024

Indonesia’s new president, President Prabowo Subianto called for collaboration with China rather than confrontation as he met with President Xi in Beijing and strengthened the relationship between the two countries.  China has invested heavily in Indonesia, but a flood of low-priced Chinese imports has hurt Indonesia’s garment makers as they are now calling for tariffs on Chinese goods (ABC News).   

Research reveals China has built prototype nuclear reactor to power aircraft carrier / November 11, 2024

China has built a nuclear-powered reactor for a military aircraft carrier as part of its modernizing efforts.  China already has the largest navy in the world with three carriers, but the US has eleven nuclear powered carriers, allowing it to have a global presence at all times.

Foreign firms pull more money from China’s slowing economy / November 10, 2024

Foreign direct investment in China fell in the third quarter of the year, bringing the total annual loss of foreign investment to almost $13 billion through September this year.  Geopolitical tension was named the primary reason for investors’ skittishness.  However, some investors are putting their money into small and medium investments (Fortune).

China’s recent rally fuels youth rush for quick gains. How are they faring? / November 12, 2024

Young Chinese adult investors under 30 made a surge of investments in October after the government announced stimulus measures in September to boost the economy, marking an unusual trend from a typically more conservative group of investors.  But, the Chinese stock market’s volatile ride since then has put some young investors in the red (CNA).   

He made a daring escape from China. Then his real troubles began. / November 10, 2024

Facing persecution in China, Uyghur Hasan Imam managed to escape from China, but he got caught in Thailand, was jailed, escaped to Malaysia, and got caught again.  After six years of being smuggled and imprisoned throughout southeast Asia, Imam was one of the rare people who made it to Turkey (The New York Times).

China’s population woes deepen as marriage registrations tumble / November 4, 2024

With only 4.75 million marriage registrations by the end of September, China is likely to have fewer than 6 million marriages this year, the lowest number since 1980, and a 16.6 percent drop since the same time in 2023.  Local governments are issuing cash incentives to encourage marriages and consequently, new births (SCMP).

Asia’s factory activity stagnates, taking shine off rebound in China / November 2, 2024

While China’s manufacturing activity rose in October, supported by government stimuli, other Asian markets, such as South Korea and Japan, saw declines in factory output due to weaker growth in other global markets (Hellenic Shipping News).

US asks China to 'curb' North Korean troops in Russia's Ukraine war / November 1, 2024

US officials have spoken with China this week in an effort to address North Korean soldiers now assisting Russia in its war against Ukraine.  North Korea’s involvement in the war escalates tensions both in the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions.  Up to 10,000 North Korean soldiers are training in Russia (USA Today).

Don't get 'river-crabbed!' How China is cracking down on punny dissent /November 2, 2024

Chinese citizens and ex-patriots have been using puns and slightly off homonyms to deceptively criticize President Xi Jinping and government entities, but the Chinese Cyberspace Administration and Ministry of Education has caught on and is erasing suspected jabs from social media (WAMC Northeast Public Radio).

Why India Is Disappearing Under China In Tectonic Tug-Of-War / November 3, 2024

As China and India squabble over border lines on the surface, India’s landmass has been losing ground five to six centimeters under the Eurasian Tibetan Plate for eons, creating the tension that spawns earthquakes in the region. (NDTV). 

China gears up for a big week as markets await U.S. elections and stimulus details / November 3, 2024

China is watching the US presidential election and how the stock market reacts to the outcome as it determines how it will form its next economic stimulus for its own struggling economy.  The standing committee of the National People's Congress ends a five-day meeting this week, and will likely increase the stimulus by ten to twenty percent if Trump wins the election (NBC New York).

China hopes for 'peaceful coexistence' with US as Trump nears win / November 6, 2024

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated that China will continue to deal with the US as it has in the past as Donald Trump edged closer to winning the US presidential election.  Reactions among Chinese citizens to the election were mixed, with many expressing little interest in the election outcome (CNA).

What Trump's win means for Ukraine, Middle East, and China / November 6, 2024

Based on Trump’s previous presidential term and his campaign speeches, BBC analysts predict what Trump’s next presidential term may do when it comes to current major global conflicts.  While Trump respects President Xi and China’s importance in the global economy, his “America First” philosophy will likely mean he will apply protectionist measures against China (BBC).

China files complaint at WTO over EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles / November 4, 2024

China has issued a complaint to the WTO against the EU for its imposition of duties up to 35% on Chinese EV imports.  The EU says it is protecting its own EV industries against the impact of Chinese subsidies on its exports to the EU.  China says the duties violate WTO rules (ABC News).

China's premier 'fully confident' of hitting growth targets / November 5, 2024

Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced at an international trade show in Shanghai that he expects China will meet its growth target of around five percent this year.  The government’s recent stimulus in September caused an uptick in parts of the economy, but the lack of detail regarding the government’s next steps has analysts and investors hesitant to move forward (CNA).

China's Summer and Autumn Harvests Drive Record Grain Output / October 28, 2024

China is expecting a record grain harvest this year—reaching 700 million tons, even after areas of China have experienced flooding and drought.  That will benefit China’s food security in an era of geopolitical instability.  Unfortunately, China also is experiencing low consumer demand, so the bounty may negatively impact prices (WSJ).

China's 'Hawaii' under water as tropical storm dumps record rainfall / October 29, 2024

Tropical Storm Trami, which made landfall in central Vietnam last Sunday, brought almost a foot of rainfall in Hainan province over a 24-hour period on Monday.  Hainan is known as China’s “Hawaii” due to its palm trees, lovely beaches, and hotels.  Three days of rain left the area waterlogged and adds to a difficult season of flooding on China’s east coast (Reuters). 

State alien land laws drive some China-born US citizens to rethink their politics / October 26, 2024

Recent US state laws banning the purchase of US farmland near US military sites by Chinese nationals have fueled a reaction by Chinese-born US citizens to fight against the laws and their GOP sponsors.  Twenty-four states have enacted such laws as concerns rose when large swaths of land in Texas and North Dakota were sold, or about to be sold, to Chinese nationals (AP News).

China vows 'countermeasures' after $2 billion US arms sale to Taiwan / October 26, 2024

The Pentagon announced last Friday that it had approved a $2 billion arms deal with Taiwan, including a new air defense missile system that was battle-tested in Ukraine.  It will be the 17th sale of arms to Taiwan by the Biden Administration.  China lodged “solemn representations” to the US (VOA).

India-China disengagement complete, exchange of sweets today / October 31, 2024

After President Xi and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Russia last week, the two countries have completed their disengagement process in two areas in the eastern Ladakh region, with the border lines returning to their pre-2020 status (NDTV).

Some companies change tack in China with no recovery in sight / October 27, 2024

Some foreign companies—from elevator manufacturers to luxury clothiers—are either lowering prices or closing factories in China as the economy continues to drag on, consumer demand is stubbornly low, and subsidized competition sells similar products at lower prices.  One company, however, is taking advantage of the rock-bottom prices to expand (Yahoo Finance). 

TSMC suspended shipments to China firm after chip found on Huawei processor / October 27, 2024

In spite of sanctions against the sale of US chip technology to Chinese companies, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) reported that one of its chips was discovered in a Huawei AI processor.  TSMC states it hasn’t done business with Huawei since 2020.  The company has, however, sold the chips to a company called Sophgo in the past; TSMC halted shipments to Sophgo at about the same time it was alerted to the discovered chip in the Huawei product (Reuters).

China's Sept industrial profits post steepest fall of the year / October 26, 2024

China’s industrial profits tumbled over 21% in September from a year earlier, and after August’s 17.8% fall as well.  September’s drop was the largest monthly decline this year.  Other indicators show that the economy is still struggling and the recently announced stimulus packages from the government haven’t shown any positive impact yet (Reuters).

China considers over $1.4 trillion in extra debt over next few years / October 29, 2024

China's top legislative body, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), is evidently considering a large stimulus package to jump-start its struggling economy.  A final decision will come out of a four-day meeting in early November that coincides with the US election. The package will address local government debt, financial system stability, and domestic demand (Reuters).

 Shanghai puts a stop to spooky season / October 28, 2024

Police in Shanghai set up barriers in an area where people customarily gather for annual Halloween festivities earlier this week and discouraged people from wearing costumes out of concern that some may wear politically sensitive outfits.  Last year, some people wore white papers, echoing a protest against the government that occurred during the zero-COVID lockdown in 2022 (NBC News).

China's private tutoring firms emerge from the shadows after crackdown / October 28, 2024

Back in 2021, China’s government cracked down on for-profit tutoring companies in an effort to help parents and students afford the extra educational help they needed in an ultra-competitive system.  The tutoring sector, whose largest companies employed 170,000 people, took a huge hit.  Recently, however, the government seems to be pulling back to aid the economy, allowing the businesses to operate again (VOA).

China declares success as its youngest astronauts reach space / October 30, 2024

A Chinese spacecraft successfully launched three “taikonauts” (astronauts)—including China’s first female space engineer—into space, taking them to the Tiangong Space Station where they will relieve another three-man crew that will return to Earth on November 4th.  The event sparked national pride in China but issued concern by Westerners that China’s space program could be weaponized (BBC).

China consulate in Myanmar hit with explosive device / October 19, 2024

China’s consulate in Myanmar’s Mandalay City was hit with an explosive device on Friday evening.  No injuries, however, were reported.  Myanmar is in the midst of a tumultuous period since the military took over the government in 2021 and ethnic groups are fighting against the junta.  China maintains ties with both sides in the conflict (The Economic Times).

Xi Jinping Asks Troops To Prepare For War As Battle Drills Intensify Around Taiwan / October 19, 2024

Chinese President Xi Jinping called on the Chinese military to be ready for combat as he spoke to Rocket Force personnel on Thursday, just days after the Chinese military conducted large-scale exercises around the island of Taiwan (NDTV World).

China Turns Up the Heat on Taiwan with Live-Fire Drills / October 22, 2024

China carried out live-fire drills on Niushan Island, the closest Chinese controlled island to Taiwan, just a week after holding a major military exercise around Taiwan, and just after US and Canadian ships sailed through the Taiwan Strait, exercising “freedom of navigation” in international waters.  China called the drills “routine” (The New York Times).

India says it reached deal with China on army patrols along disputed border / October 21, 2024

China and India have come to an agreement on military patrols along the contested border between the two nations.  However, the agreement is described as “resolving the low-hanging fruits” but the more complex issues still need to be addressed (Al Jazeera).

How India and China pulled back from a border war — and why now / October 22, 2024

India and China’s border agreement only restores the stance both countries had along their shared border before the 2020 clash that killed soldiers on both sides. But the agreement opens doors to business deals and for Prime Minister Modi and President Xi to meet, perhaps at the upcoming BRICS meeting in Russia this week (Al Jazeera).

GOP lawmakers seek investigation of consulting firm over its work in China / October 18, 2024

A group of Republican lawmakers demanded an investigation into consulting firm McKinsey, which manages contracts with the US Defense Department, but also deals with Chinese state-controlled companies and other Chinese businesses.  The group charges McKinsey with misrepresenting tis relationship with the Chinese government (WTOP News).

China boosts export controls on dual use items, state media says / October 19, 2024

Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced that new regulations on exports of “dual-use” items will take effect on December 1st in an effort to provide transparency and standardization.  China has been accused of providing Russia with dual-use items to support Russia’s war against Ukraine.  Just last week, the US sanctioned two Chinese companies and a Russian affiliate of making and exporting attack drones (Reuters).

China, Russia, North Korea and Iran described as new ‘Axis of Evil’ by some / October 23, 2024

Russia’s recent cooperation with Iran on naval drills and North Korean soldiers now serving in Russia are examples of a probable “New Axis of Evil” forming among China, Russia, North Korea and Iran. China is the lynch-pin that empowers the bloc.  Evidence in weapons used by Russia indicate that all three of the other countries are supporting Russia by supplying parts for its war against Ukraine (VOA).

Efforts by Russia, Iran and China to sway US voters may escalate, report says / October 23, 2024

Evidence suggest that Russia, Iran and China have been and will continue to attempt to influence the 2024 election in the US with false ads and reports.  While it seems odd that Russia is attacking the Harris campaign and China is going after down-ballot Republican candidates, the effort seemingly appears to further divide the US citizenry against itself, not to push a candidate into office (AP News).

International airlines cut China flights over Russian airspace ban, economic concerns / October 20, 2024

Lower business travel and the added cost of flying around Russian airspace due to the Russian war in Ukraine has prompted many European airlines to cancel flights to China this month.  China’s domestic airlines can access Russian airspace so they can offer cheaper flights.  While airlines periodically adjust their flights to match seasonal demands, China’s weak economy seems to be having a negative effect on travel demand (SCMP).

China cuts benchmark lending rates by 25 basis points / October 20, 2024

In an effort to boost the lagging economy, the Central Bank of China announced new rate cuts for both the one-year and five-year loan prime rates to 3.1% and 3.6% respectively.  Other rates were also cut, but some economists continue to say that such stimuli still won’t be enough to get the economy to a healthy state again (CNBC).

More than 60% of Chinese over 60 are empty nesters, survey finds / October 22, 2024

While it is common for the elderly to be empty nesters in most Western countries, the fact that 60% of senior adults polled in a survey live without their children at home is an exception to the traditional norm in China.  Children typically care for their aging parents, but China’s one-child policy, and the current economy makes such care difficult.  The elderly, especially in rural areas, can’t afford to go to a nursing home, either (SCMP).

Why US elections are losing shine for Chinese once drawn to democratic process / October 18, 2024

Many Chinese have enjoyed observing American politics, and for some, it was a psychological way they could vicariously participate in a civic process in a country where it doesn’t exist.  But recently, tensions between China and the US, the volatile and absurd nature of recent presidential races, and the US government’s poor handling of the pandemic, have many Chinese viewing our election as disappointing entertainment (SCMP).

China and the Vatican agree to extend an agreement on appointing bishops / October 22, 2024

The Vatican and China have agreed to a 4-year extension of a 2018 agreement on the appointment of bishops in the recognized state-sanctioned Catholic church in China.  The initial agreement only verified that the Vatican agreed to accept seven bishops that had been appointed by the CCP.  An underground Catholic church exists in China, including other bishops who have not been recognized by the CCP (AP News).

Trump vs. Harris: Who does China want? / October 13, 2024

Reporters discuss the economy and politics between the US and China, acknowledging that both the Biden and Trump administrations recognized the threat of Chinese imports, especially electric vehicles, and imposed sanctions to prevent China from “dumping” products into the US economy.  One reporter stated China views both US parties as “two bowls of poison” (BBC World Service).

Pandas from China arrive in Washington, D.C. / October 15, 2024

Two pandas from China arrived in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, ending an 11-month absence of pandas from the National Zoo. The two giant pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, will have a month to settle into their new surroundings before going on display (CBS News).

China’s Deflation Problem Worsens on Weak Consumer Prices / October 12, 2024

Aside from a spike in prices for fresh vegetables in September, the month’s economic data in China showed continued weak consumer demand.  The consumer price index rose only by 0.1%.  Producer inflation fell 2.8% year over year.  The Chinese government cut interest rates and provided support for the property sector with the hope of the economy gradually recovering (Yahoo Finance).

Nobel Prize-winning research pushes Chinese economists to call for institutional reforms / October 16, 2024

After American economists won the Nobel prize this year for their research advocating that “inclusive” governments support better economic success of a nation rather than “extractive” ones, Chinese economists also agreed that China’s government should be more “inclusive.” Two of the American economists wrote in 2012 that China’s combination of economic growth and political control cannot be sustainable (SCMP).

China’s plan to boost flagging growth is the very definition of economic insanity / October 13, 2024

China’s recent “bazooka” economic stimulus is the fourth attempt in the last 16  years to revitalize its struggling economy even though the same strategy has not worked in the past.  According to Charles Magnus, China’s recovery demands political changes that are anathema to its Leninist government (The Guardian).

A Japanese boy was killed in China. Was cyber-nationalism to blame? / October 13, 2024

The tragic death of a Japanese school student in China has sparked a debate over a rising cyber-nationalism occurring in China that is spilling over into reality.  Online nationalists are called “Little Pinks” as they harp on online comments that are deemed critical of communist ideology.  The phenomenon is called a “Cultural Revolution 2.0,” connecting the current nationalist patriotism to the violent purges in the 1960s and 70s (BBC).

China launches war games around Taiwan, drawing sharp criticism from Taipei / October 13, 2024

On Monday, China began a new round of military exercises around Taiwan with a record 153 military aircraft as part of the drills.  The drills apparently came in response to Taiwan President Lai’s speech on the October 10th national holiday, although some state that such drills take longer than a few days to plan (ABC News-Australia).   

China won't renounce use of force over Taiwan; Xi visits frontline island / October 16, 2024

A  spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office declared that China will never renounce using force to take control of Taiwan as China carried out more military drills around the island and President Xi visited a Chinese-controlled island close to Taiwan and where the Taiwan military lost a battle against the CCP in 1953 (Reuters).

China’s premier inaugurates a Beijing-funded airport at the start of a Pakistan trip / October 14, 2024

On Monday, China’s Premier Li Qiang gave his blessing to a new Chinese-funded airport in the turbulent Pakistani province of Balochistan, just a week after two Chinese nationals were killed by a terrorist bombing.  The airport, along with a 2000-mile highway from China to the Arabian Sea in Pakistan, are developments intended to connect China to the area’s resources.  Balochistan separatists claim China is exploiting the region (AP News).

Joe Biden ‘sent Xi congratulatory message’ to mark China’s 75th National Day / October 5, 2024

President Biden sent a congratulatory message to President Xi as China celebrated the 75th anniversary of its founding as the People’s Republic of China with a week-long celebration that began on October 1st.  China’s foreign ministry made the announcement on Saturday, Oct. 5th but did not say when the missive had been sent.  Typically, the US sends such greetings at the end of September (SCMP).

US says Taiwan speech no justification for China military pressure / October 9, 2024

Just after China celebrates the anniversary of the CCP’s rule over mainland China in the first week of October, the Republic of China in Taiwan observes its anniversary on October 10th.  Taiwanese President Lai will commemorate the event with a speech, and US officials are saying there is no need for China to express its displeasure through military exercises around the island (Reuters).

Taiwan's president vows to resist 'annexation' / October 10, 2024

President Lai’s speech marking the 113th anniversary of the rule of the Republic of China on the island drew criticism from China as Lai defended his goal to uphold the island’s self-governing status.  Lai’s speech was actually “softer” than previous speeches where he took a more aggressive tone against Chinese aggression toward Taiwan (BBC).

Chinese hackers breached US court wiretap systems / October 6, 2024

US telecom companies’ networks may have been breached by Chinese hackers according to a Wall Street Times report, exposing sensitive information.  China’s foreign ministry denied knowledge of the incident and claimed that the report was another “false narrative” created by the US to disrupt international dialogue (Reuters).

Frustrated with US, Argentina's Milei seeks rapprochement with China / October 5, 2024

Argentina’s President Javier Milei was once critical of China and its aggressive stance on the global stage, but now he appears to be interested in what China has to offer his country economically.  The change in perspective may be due to a deal brokered with China regarding currency swap contracts and China’s insistence that Milei attend the next China-CELAC Forum (Yahoo Finance).

China Stock Skepticism Gets Louder as World-Beating Run Extends / October 7, 2024

While China’s stock markets have enjoyed a hefty rebound in the last few weeks, fueled by new stimuli from the CCP, global fund managers are skeptical that the rebound is solid because many stocks may now be over-inflated, these stimuli are not enough to correct all the problems in the economy, and the economy is still fragile and could revert again if something goes wrong (Yahoo Finance).

China stock rally fizzles as stimulus news disappoints / October 8, 2024

Investors were disappointed in the government’s announcement on Tuesday regarding its next plans to boost the economy, causing the recent rally in Chinese stocks to cool.  The government plans to pour more money into the economy but it isn’t enough according to some investors (BBC).

China’s ultra-wealthy are fleeing and taking $1 trillion with them / October 8, 2024

China has seen an exodus of the ultra-rich, not just over the last few years, but almost for the last decade.  President Xi and the CCP’s “common prosperity” program of wealth redistribution and the government’s crackdown on “corruption” are among the reasons for the flight as the wealthy even resort to illegal means to get their money out of the country (news.com.au).

Why civil engineering students are disappearing from China’s top universities / October 7, 2024 

China’s housing crisis started with too much debt and an overabundance of housing units.  Then construction halted and there were too many construction workers, resulting in layoffs.  Now, university civil engineering programs are downsizing or even closing as students choose different careers or transfer out of engineering to other disciplines (SCMP).

China says two citizens killed, one injured in Pakistan ‘terrorist attack’ / October 7, 2024

The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan reported that two Chinese citizens were killed and a third was wounded last Sunday night by an IED set off by a group called the BLA, the Balochistan Liberation Army.  The BLA has been banned in Pakistan, yet still has committed other acts of violence in its fight for autonomy in Pakistan’s Balochistan Province (Al Jazeera).

Chinese scientists reverse type 1 diabetes with cell transplant / September 30, 2024

Chinese scientists have found a way to use stem cell derived islet cells to bring insulin and sugar levels to a balanced state in a 25-year-old patient.  A minimally invasive half-hour surgery placed the cells in the patient’s abdomen.  Seventy five days later, she no longer needed insulin injections (Business Standard).

China stocks surge in biggest single-day rally since 2008 on stimulus cheer / September 30, 2024

China’s stock market rebounded euphorically on Monday as investors responded positively to the government’s recent stimulus package, setting new increases in various indexes that haven’t been seen for more than 15 years.  Monday’s resurgence followed increases that began last week Tuesday (Reuters).

China AI Chip Leader Soars 20% Limit as Beijing Warns on Nvidia / September 29, 2024

Beijing has been urging China’s domestic technology companies to cease purchasing AI chip materials from foreign companies like Invidia in favor of domestic chip makers, both to support China’s economy and to encourage self-sufficiency by supporting the development of domestic research and production.  Chinese chip makers' stocks soared on Monday, while Invidia’s fell 2% (Yahoo Finance).

Xi Jinping is worried about the economy - what do Chinese people think? / October 1, 2024

Surveys conducted since the early 2000’s reveal a recent, growing dismay among Chinese people over the economy and their quality of life.  The government’s response to the pandemic and its massive lockdowns have severely affected the psyche of many Chinese people.  An increase in protests—online and on the street—also demonstrate some people’s pessimism (BBC News).

Xi Jinping forecasts ‘rough seas’ on 75th anniversary of People’s Republic of China / October 1, 2024

President Xi celebrated the 75th anniversary of China’s Communist Party rule in the country this week, but both his speech and the smaller schedule of celebratory events reflect the tenuous nature of the Chinese economy, global politics, and the national sentiment of its people  (The Guardian).

”No Chinese company may disobey an order” by the CCP / September 29, 2024

Lawyer, author and commentator Gordon Chang warned that Chinese electric vehicles may collect information about the driver that the CCP could also access if it wanted to.  Chinese law, according to Chang, mandates complete compliance of any Chinese company.  EV Direct CEO David Smitherman defended China’s EV automakers, saying any data collected in Australian bought cars was stored locally (news.com.au).

China says US missile deployment in Philippines undermines peace / September 28, 2024

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned that the US deployment of an intermediate missiles system in the Philippines—the first in the region—was an attempt to undermine peace and stability in the South Pacific.  He also advised the US against creating “war or chaos” on the Korean peninsula (Reuters).

China warns against 'expansion' of Ukraine war / September 28, 2024

China 's Foreign Minister Wang Yi also warned of any escalation in the war in Ukraine and called for a cease-fire in Israel’s conflict with Lebanon.  Wang reiterated that China stands ready to negotiate between Ukraine and Russia, and that China sees the two-state solution as the only option for peace between Israel and the Palestinian state (VOA).

Switzerland praises China-Brazil peace plan for Ukraine / September 28, 2024

In response to the latest efforts by China and Brazil to broker a peace deal for the war between Russia and Ukraine, a Swiss foreign ministry representative stated that Switzerland is interested in the proposed deal.  Ukraine expressed dismay over Switzerland’s support for the Sino-Brazilian plan (Reuters).

China testing us, Joe Biden caught telling Quad leaders on hot mic / September 22, 2024

President Biden was caught on a “hot mic” on Saturday, telling the leaders of India, Australia, and Japan that China is “testing us” across the Indo-Pacific region.  The four-member Quad exists to promote free and fair trade in the area; China claims all of the South China Sea, challenging the Quad’s perspective (The Economic Times).

Japan destroyer inadvertently entered China waters, captain sacked / September 23, 2024

Back in July, a Japanese destroyer inadvertently sailed into Chinese waters for about 20 minutes.  China objected to the ship’s entry into China’s territorial waters and submitted a complaint.  The captain of the Japanese vessel, who had just been given command of the ship in May, was relieved of duty.  The ship’s crew had planned to observe a Chinese military drill (Kyodo News).

China on 'high alert' after Japan warship sails through Taiwan Strait / September 26, 2024

China was on “high alert” and lodged a complaint with Japan on Thursday after Japan’s navy sailed a warship through the Taiwan Strait as a demonstration of the Strait’s “international waters” status on the world stage.  Actually, Australia and New Zealand also sailed military vessels through the Strait on the same day, and last week China sailed an aircraft carrier between two Japanese islands near Taiwan (CNA).   

China says test-launched ICBM with ‘dummy warhead’ into Pacific / September 25, 2024

China announced that it tested an Intercontinental ballistic missile in the Pacific Ocean on Wednesday, although it did not elaborate on where the test specifically took place.  China is working on modernizing and increasing its missile weaponry to catch up to, or surpass, the US’s arsenal (Al Jazeera).

What’s behind China’s launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile / September 25, 2024

China has not tested an ICBM launch in the Pacific Ocean since 1980, so its recent exercise this week suggests the unusual occurrence is a threatening message to the US and its allies in the region, as well as a message to its own citizens that the PLA’s Rocket Force is functioning well after many of its leaders were removed on charges of corruption earlier this year (AP News).

Despite global EV slowdown, China's car industry refuses to put on handbrake / September 21, 2024

While the global demand for EVs is cooling, Chinese EV automakers are forging ahead with production as Chinese consumers opt for Chinese-made vehicles. Price, patriotism and better-made vehicles are reasons for a shift in sales from Western to Chinese vehicles.  And, Chinese automakers are attempting to bypass tariffs by building factories in the EU and other western countries (ABC News—Australia).

China Steel Mills Are Facing a Wave of Bankruptcies, BI Says / September 22, 2024

China’s housing crisis and continuously low consumer demand is now hurting the Chinese steel industry, potentially creating a wave of bankruptcies in this area of China’s economy.  To keep afloat, Chinese steelmakers have exported their products often for prices below cost, but that has angered foreign steel makers who can’t compete with such drastically low prices.  If bankruptcies occur, it may help China consolidate the industry (Yahoo Finance).

China unveils raft of measures to boost economy / September 25, 2024

China’s Central Bank announced on Tuesday that it will cut its required reserve by one half of a percentage point, unleashing $142 billion to be used for increased lending.  The Bank will also lower interest rates on home loans and lower the minimum downpayment to 15%. The announcement gave Asian stock markets a healthy boost (BBC News).

China's monetary volleys miss key threat to economic growth / September 24, 2024

According to some analysts, the People’s Bank of China’s bold measures to boost the economy that were announced this week will miss the main issue affecting China’s sluggish economy:  poor consumer demand.  Rather, other fiscal policies could address that problem, and many are hopeful the Chinese government will follow through with these measures (Reuters).

A Chinese Christian Tortured in Jail Tells His Story / September 18, 2024

Zhu Chunlin, a Chinese Christian, was imprisoned for illegal fundraising and endured torture while he served out his sentence.  “Education and labor reform” included lack of sleep, being targeted by other prisoners and prison personnel, and being forced to wear shackles and handcuffs for long periods of time.  Chunlin states only his faith in God got him through the darkest period of his life (Bitter Winter).

China frees David Lin, American pastor detained for 18 years / September 16, 2024

China released an American pastor imprisoned for nearly 20 years on Sunday in a rare move that happened to occur at the beginning of the mid-Autumn festival.  Lin was convicted of fraud after trying to establish a Christian training center in China.  His daughter was recently diagnosed with cancer.  There are still over 200 Americans being held in China (CBS News).

China is raising its retirement age, now among the lowest in major economies / September 13, 2024

The world's second-largest economy approved a plan Friday to raise its retirement ages over the next 15 years. China's retirement ages are among the world's lowest. The legislation comes amid China's falling birth rates and an aging workforce (AP News).

China’s startup scene is dead as investors pull out—’Today, we are like lepers’ / September 16, 2024

The number of China’s new companies has collapsed in 2024 as investors have stopped offering funds to support startups.  The risks in a sluggish economy and strict government regulations have scared off investors in what has been an extremely vibrant economic atmosphere (Yahoo Finance).  

China hits 9 US firms with property freeze over weapons sales to Taiwan / September 18, 2024

This Wednesday, China placed sanctions on nine US military-related firms for making weapons sales to Taiwan.  The companies’ properties in China have been “frozen” as an attempt by China to get Washington to end its military support of Taiwan (Reuters).

Philippine Coast Guard ship in South China Sea standoff returns to port / September 15, 2024

The Philippine vessel, Teresa Magbanua, returned to its port in Manila after a months-long tour of duty in the Sabina Shoal, protecting the area from China’s attempts to claim more territory in the South China Sea.  The ship is returning for repairs, some due to a Chinese Coast Guard vessel ramming the ship in August (Al Jazeera).

China rams Philippine ship while 60 Minutes on board / September 15, 2024

Tension in the South China Sea continues to grow as Chinese Coast Guard vessels have interrupted Philippine supply ship deliveries near the Sabina Shoal. In August, Chinese vessels surrounded the Cape Engaño, which was hosting a 60 Minutes filming crew.  One ship rammed the Engaño, creating a 3-foot hole in the hull. China accused the Philippines of a propaganda campaign (CBS News).

US-China military leaders hold routine talks on South China Sea tensions / September 15, 2024

US military officials met with their Chinese counterparts in Beijing this weekend to continue talks between the two superpowers regarding major global issues such as the Russia-Ukraine war, Taiwan and tensions in the South China Sea.  The talks were last held in January (ABC News).

Vladimir Putin's Pivot to China is Backfiring / September 16, 2024

US sanctions hanging like a dark cloud over Chinese banks has forced them to increasingly reject  transactions with Russian banks and companies, causing Moscow to raise fees on yuan transfers.  An old idea to create a joint Chinese-Russian bank is back on the table to try and skirt the sanctions (Newsweek).

All flights grounded in Shanghai as China prepares for typhoon / September 15, 2024

Typhoon Bebinca was set to make landfall on China’s populous eastern seaboard and Shanghai on Sunday, bringing torrential rain and damaging winds.  Airports, shipping, rail lines, and recreational parks all planned to shut down to ride out the storm.  China’s weather office issued its second highest warning as the storm approached the mainland (CNA).

Strongest typhoon since 1949 hits Shanghai, knocks out power to homes / September 16, 2024

Typhoon Bebinca made landfall on Monday, bringing winds up to 94 mph and up to 12 inches of rain. One man was injured, but no other injuries or fatalities were reported.  More than 400,000 people had been relocated ahead of the storm.  It is unusual for typhoons to strike Shanghai (AP News).

Ten-year-old Japanese boy dies after stabbing in China / September 19, 2024

A ten-year-old boy who was stabbed by a Chinese citizen on Wednesday this week died from his injuries one day later.  The boy, who has a Japanese father and a Chinese mother, was attending a Japanese school when the incident occurred.  No reason for the stabbing was given, although some suggested that rising Chinese nationalism may have motivated the assailant (BBC News).

Warm fronts to Y-fronts: Chinese city hit by underwear storm / September 9, 2024

After enduring high temperatures and a drought in the city of Chongking, authorities decided to fire 200 cloud-seeding rockets into the sky to cause it to rain.  The plan succeeded, but residents claim the artificial rain-making scheme also caused a windstorm that produced wind gusts up to 76 mph, sending underwear and clothing from clotheslines into the sky (The Guardian).

China's exports up solidly but slowing imports dim trade outlook / September 10, 2024

China’s exports in August were a bright light on a gloomy economic stage as exports rose 8.7% year on year, possibly prompted by companies filling orders ahead of impending tariff increases in Europe, Canada and even South-Asian countries.  Even so, China expects exports to ride out the storm (Reuters).

European firms doubt China's appetite to fix economy, lobby group says / September 11, 2024

European firms are casting doubt on China’s economy and their ability to realize profits by investing in the country or doing business there.  Domestic demand is still sluggish; government stimuli are unrealistic; competition with domestic companies is imbalanced due to government subsidies; national security laws threaten workers and a highly politicized business environment are not worth the marginal benefits (Reuters).

China to Cut Rates on $5 Trillion Mortgages as Soon as September / September 12, 2024

In an effort to stimulate domestic consumption, China is planning to offer homeowners reductions on mortgages of up to 80 points if people refinance their loans.  Previous attempts by the government to revive the economy have not succeeded (Yahoo Finance).

China’s deflationary spiral is now entering a dangerous new stage / September 9, 2024

China’s economy is beginning to reflect Japan’s “lost decades” of the 1990s the economy appears to be spiraling into a deeper deflation hole.  Employee wages have either stagnated or declined at a time when the government wants consumers to spend more.  The taboo word “deflation” is showing up in social media more than economists want it to (Yahoo Finance).

EU to trim proposed tariffs on Tesla, other EVs from China / September 10, 2024

The EU will slightly lower the tariffs it has planned to place on Chinese EV imports after some automakers in China submitted materials to an investigative commission that looked for Chinese subsidies and their effect on the auto industry in Europe.  The tariff on Tesla, already lower than other companies’ tariffs, was lowered from 9% to 7.8%.  BYD’s tariff will remain at 17% (Reuters).   

Ukraine's Zelenskiy dismisses 'destructive' China-Brazil peace initiative / September 12, 2024

Ukrainian President Zelenskiy rejected China’s latest peace proposal, co-sponsored by iBrazil. Zelenskiy criticized the proposal partly because Ukraine never had a part in developing it, nor did he appreciate Brazil’s pro-Russia perspective in the matter (Reuters).

Russia, China kick off joint military exercises, challenging US-led coalition / September 10, 2024

Russia and China are carrying out another joint military exercise, this time with more than 400 naval vessels, 120 aircraft, and around 90,000 troops.  The exercises are meant to counteract the West’s presence in volatile regions and to stretch thin the West’s military strength with its presence in multiple locations (VOA).

China's Troops Advance Dozens of Miles Across Indian Border / September 10, 2024

Refuse and graffiti apparently left behind by Chinese troops in the Indian-controlled area of Arunachal Pradesh showed that the Chinese army had infiltrated 37 miles into the contested area.  Since 2020’s deadly clash between China and India in the Galwan Valley, the two sides have attempted to be more diplomatic (Newsweek).

China Announced Two Breakthroughs in Semiconductor Chip Sector / September 11, 2024

“Recently, China has set two records in semiconductor chip sector: first, it mass-produced the world’s first 28nm embedded RRAM image quality adjustment chip; second, it developed the world’s first 16-bit quantum bit semiconductor microprocessor chip” (TrendForce).

No sharing secrets with India: China's EV giants told to keep tech at home / September 12, 2024

China’s Ministry of Commerce advised Chinese automakers in July to prevent sensitive Chinese EV technology from being shared outside of China by not doing any auto-related investments in India.  The Ministry also encouraged the companies to skirt tariffs by using “knock-down” kits—packaging parts that can be assembled in other countries but would avoid the tariffs placed on complete vehicles as they are imported (Business Today).

Ex-CIA spy for China gets 10 years in prison — and a lifetime of polygraph tests / September 11, 2024

A former CIA officer who was arrested in 2020 was sentenced to 10 years in prison for providing sensitive information to the Chinese government.  Alexander Yuk Ching Ma, 71, worked with his brother to provide classified and sensitive information to the Shanghai State Security Bureau.  In return, the brothers received $50,000 and numerous gifts.  Two years later, he began a 6-year run of providing China with information (AP News).

China to train overseas law enforcement officers to create ‘more fair’ world order / September 11, 2024

China is offering to train thousands of foreign police officers to create what it calls a “more fair” world order.  Human rights groups have said that the training of African officers included communist “authoritarian tactics” and was designed to protect Chinese investments in those countries.  The matter has been an issue since 2022 but recently came up again as China made the offer again at a public security conference (The Guardian).

Tick-borne Wetland virus, newly discovered in China, could cause damage to the brain / September 10, 2024

Scientists have discovered a new tick-borne illness—dubbed the Wetland virus—in China that causes a variety of symptoms that mimic other diseases but could also lead to hemorrhagic fever in rare cases.  All the patients infected with Wetland virus were given antiviral medication, antibiotics, and immunoglobulin therapy and recovered from their symptoms (Fox News).

What do Hong Kong teens think about official advice on controlling sexual impulses? / August 13, 2024

Hong Kong’s Education Bureau released a new set of instructional materials for secondary students on sex education, causing a strong backlash for its dismissive approach to sexual desires among teens, as well as its implied accusation that it is the girl’s fault for causing a boy’s excitement because of her attire (SCMP). 

China's halt of foreign adoptions leaves questions about pending cases / September 5, 2024

China has stopped the adoption processes of “all cases” for intercountry adoptions of Chinese children, leaving expectant parents wondering if there is any hope for their adoption plans to come to fruition.  Only blood-relative adoptions are allowed, according to Mao Ning, a spokeswoman for the foreign ministry.  China’s birthrate and its overall population have dropped for the last two years (ABC News).

‘Spamouflage’ network mimics Americans online to sway US political debate / September 3, 2024

As the US presidential election approaches, election interference by foreign adversaries is once again becoming a concern.  “Spamouflage,” a suspected Chinese “disinformation group,” has been accused of creating fake online users and influencers, not necessarily to promote one candidate over another, but to create distrust in the election and the US as a country.  Other countries, like Russia and Iran, are also suspected to be involved (AP News).

China-Africa Summit 2024: What’s in it for Beijing, Xi Jinping, and Africa? / September 4, 2024

The tri-annual China-Africa Summit called the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) met this week, with over 53 African heads of state and other officials attending the lavish conference.  China has been investing in Africa for nearly 20 years and is the continent’s largest investor (Al Jazeera).

China’s Xi promises one million jobs for Africa / September 5, 2024

Speaking at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation this week, President Xi Jinping promised to bring at least one million jobs on the African continent through China’s numerous partnerships with African countries to build infrastructure, factories, hospitals, schools and more, all to modernize the continent and strengthen China’s ties with the Global South.  Xi stated China will bring the equivalent of 51 billion dollars in aid and development to Africa (Al Jazeera).

Taiwan Turns Tables on China with Russian Territories Jibe / September 2, 2024

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, in response to China’s claim over Taiwan, suggested that China should also reclaim territory—large parts of Manchuria—given to Russia in the 1800s if it is so serious about reclaiming “lost” lands.  China had a loose claim to Taiwan in the 1800s under the Qing dynasty.  Lai claims China only wants Taiwan because China wants to exert its power and hegemony (Newsweek).

New York governor's ex-aide charged as Chinese agent / September 4, 2024

Linda Sun, and her husband, Christopher Hu, were arrested on Tuesday and charged with acting as agents of the Chinese government.  Ms. Sun had worked for the State of New York for more than 10 years, first in the Cuomo Administration and more recently, in the Hochul administration, but only for about 15 months (BBC News). 

'Chinese spy mayor' wanted by Philippines arrested / September 3, 2024

Alice Guo, the recent mayor of the small Philippine town of Bamban, was found in Indonesia and arrested for sheltering organized crime and human trafficking under online gambling casinos in Bamban.  She is also suspected of serving as a Chinese spy or agent.  Ms. Guo fled the country in July and denies the allegations (BBC News).

US Responds After Chinese Ship Rams US Ally in South China Sea / September 2, 2024

The United States condemned the Chinese Coast Guard and the Chinese government for the ship’s ramming into a Philippine Coast Guard vessel that was maneuvering near the Spratley Shoal in the South China Sea.  This is the second time Chinese Coast Guard ships have threatened Philippine ships in this area since the two countries had a short reprieve from hostilities earlier this summer (Newsweek).

China Reacts After Russia Says It Intends to Change Nuclear War Policy / September 2, 2024

In response to Ukraine’s incursion into Russian territory in its war with Russia, President Vladimir Putin warned that Russia is rethinking its nuclear doctrine, suggesting that Russia may employ nuclear weapons either against Ukraine, or its allies that are supporting its war effort.  China warned that a nuclear war cannot be fought nor won (Newsweek).

China hits Canada with anti-dumping probe on canola imports, Ottawa concerned / September 4, 2024

Following the direction of the US and the EU, Canada enacted 100% tariffs on Chinese EV imports, including Tesla.  China condemned Canada’s actions and said it will start an anti-dumping investigation into Canada’s canola oil and some chemical exports to China.  Almost all of China’s canola oil imports come from Canada (Reuters).

China warns Japan of retaliation over potential new chip curbs, Bloomberg reports / September 2, 2024

A trade war between China and Japan is escalating as China has warned Japan that it may cut off raw material exports to Japan if Japan places more sanctions on chipmaking equipment to China.  Japan began restricting exports of certain semiconductor equipment in July, following the United States’ lead to limit China’s access to Western technology (Reuters).

China says ship passage through Japan’s territorial waters "legitimate" / September 2, 2024

Japan lodged a protest against China on Monday after a Chinese naval vessel sailed into Japanese waters near Kagoshima Prefecture over the weekend.  Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Mao Ning, explained that the ship was in an area of “international navigation.”  This is the tenth occurrence of Chinese ships entering Japanese territorial waters since 2021.  In August, a Chinese spy plane entered Japanese airspace, also (Kyodo News).

China's manufacturing output swung back to modest growth in August / September 1, 2024

A private survey indicates that factory activity improved modestly in August among smaller Chinese manufacturers as export orders increased while domestic demand continued to be weak (CNBC).

China robots conference spotlights the changing face of humanoids / August 25, 2024

In 2022, China utilized over 6 times more robots than either Japan or the United States, which installed roughly 40,000 to 50,000 robots in various roles.  President Xi’s mandate to create innovative uses for technology is behind the thrust into robotics innovation in China (Reuters). 

China accuses Canada of protectionism over 100% tariffs on electric vehicles / August 27, 2024

Following the US’ lead and to protect its own auto industry, Canada set 100% tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, causing China to vigorously condemn Trudeau’s government for violating WTO trade rules.  Canada accuses China of creating an oversupply of government-subsidized EVs which could be sold at a lower price (AP News).

 PDD’s $55 Billion Stock Crash Sends Warning on China Economy / August 27, 2024

Temu’s parent company, PDD Holdings Inc. announced that its second-quarter revenue missed estimates, causing a 29% drop in its stock value.  Temu was the shining beacon of hope for the Chinese economy, but a continuously weak consumer demand and competition in the e-commerce sector have made it difficult for the company to keep its momentum going (Yahoo Finance).

Two more Chinese airlines to start flying China-made COMAC C919 jet / August 28, 2024

COMAC, the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, delivered its new C919 passenger jet to two Chinese airlines this week, marking the second and third airline companies to receive the new jets.  COMAC is just beginning to break into the aircraft economy but doesn’t have clearance yet to do business with EU or US airlines (Reuters).

Western airlines were excited about returning to China after Covid. But not anymore / August 25, 2024

Unexpected weaker consumer demand and geopolitical conflicts have put a damper on Western airline companies’ bottom line as they try to recover a once vibrant sector of airline travel.  Westerners are not flying to China as much as they used to, and Western airlines must fly around Russian airspace due to sanctions and safety concerns.  Chinese airlines, however, are not suffering as much as Western airlines are (CNN Business).

Hong Kong court convicts former Stand News editors of sedition / August 29, 2024

A Hong Kong court convicted two former journalists from the now defunct Stand News organization, which once was Hong Kong’s leading online media and a strong promoter of the freedom of the press.  This is the first time any Hong Kong journalists have been convicted of sedition since China took over Hong Kong in 1997 (Reuters).

Sullivan's China visit expected to set stage for Biden-Xi final meeting / August 27, 2024

While President Biden is not seeking re-election this year and is in a “lame duck” period, President Xi is still interested in meeting with him one last time, possibly at the  Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Peru or the G20 summit in Brazil later this fall (VOA).  

Xi Jinping tells Jake Sullivan China is committed to stable US ties / August 29, 2024

Jake Sullivan, the US National Security Advisor, was in China this week for talks with President Xi and top government officials.  While very little was resolved, President Xi expressed hope that the two global powers could maintain “stable and healthy ties,” respecting each other’s development (SCMP).

China calls for more support for its Ukraine peace plan created with Brazil / August 27, 2024

China called on its allies to express support for a peace plan created by China and Brazil for the Russia-Ukraine war, but the conflict has escalated with Ukraine’s incursion into Russia.  While the US and Europe have supported Ukraine with weaponry, China has also been accused of supplying dual-use products Russia can use to make its own weapons (AP News).

China conducts military drills along Myanmar border amid fears of war spillover / August 27, 2024

A civil war in Myanmar is heating up along the border with China.  Consequently, China has recently held live-fire military drills along the Chinese side of the border as a sign for the conflicting sides to de-escalate the fighting.  China fears the war could spill over into its territory either with refugees or stray shell fire crossing the border (ABC News—Australia).

US charges former democracy activist with spying for China / August 22, 2024

US prosecutors have charged a 67-year-old Chinese man with spying for China while living in the US as a US citizen.  Previously, Yuanjun Tang was a citizen of China and was involved in the protest that led up to the Tiananmen Square crackdown in 1989.  He served time in prison, fled to Taiwan and eventually moved to the US.  Evidently, Yuanjun spied on dissident groups and individuals between 2018 and 2023 (Al Jazeera).

China says it is 'seriously concerned' about US nuclear strategic report / August 21, 2024

The Biden Administration issued a nuclear strategic plan in March designed to focus on China’s growing nuclear arsenal as well as the military cooperation between China, Russia and North Korea.  Now, China is charging the US with fanning the flames of a Chinese nuclear threat without reason.  China has around 500 nuclear missiles currently, and may have around 1000 missiles by 2030 (CNA).

Tensions rising in South China Sea between China, Philippines / August 21, 2024

After a brief respite between China and the Philippines, a new skirmish occurred near the Sabina Shoal when Chinese Coast Guard ships tried to block and ended up colliding with at least two Philippine transport ships.  The Sabina Shoal is about 60 miles west of the Philippines and over 650 miles from China (CBS News).

China ‘dramatically’ alarmed by US missile deployment: Philippines / August 18, 2024

Last April the US deployed missile systems to the Philippines for combat drills, causing China to express “dramatic” concern over the military buildup.  However, Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo told China’s Foreign Secretary Wang Yi that he deployment was only temporary, and that the systems would likely be moved next month (Defense News).

Fury as suspected China spy flees the Philippines / August 20, 2024

The former mayor of the small Philippine town of Bamban, Alice Gao, has fled the country as allegations of allowing scam and human trafficking centers, and even spying for China have been raised against her.  Philippine President Marcos has pledged to get to the bottom of the corruption that allowed her skip border inspections in order to escape (BBC News).

Chinese academic visits banned at Canberra's Australian Defense Force Academy / August 20, 2024

The Australian Defense Force Academy has banned academics from China at its Canberra campus at the University of New South Wales (UNSW).  The ADF trains most of its cadets at the Canberra campus and doesn’t want potential Chinese operatives mingling with future officers in the ADF, nor does it want sensitive military information to be freely taught to potential operatives (ABC News—Australia).

Future murky for Russia-China pipeline as Mongolia omits project from long-term plan / August 20, 2024

Mongolia’s new government has shelved the construction of a pipeline that would bring natural gas to China from Russia, supplying Russia with badly needed cash as it faces Western sanctions and continuing costs for its war with Ukraine.  China doesn’t appear to be eager to complete the pipeline and Russia is short on cash, so Mongolia is sitting tight.  All three countries would benefit from the pipeline, however (SCMP).

Azerbaijan applies to join Russia and China in the BRICS alliance / August 20, 2024

Azerbaijan is the latest country to join the BRICS alliance, joining this Tuesday, a day after Azerbaijan’s president met with Russian President Putin.  For many years, the BRICS alliance included only Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.  Recently, however, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, the UAE, and now Azerbaijan doubles the size of the pact (AP News).

China and Vietnam sign 14 deals from rail to crocodiles after leaders meet / August 19, 2024

Vietnam’s new leader, To Lam, visited China this week, signing fourteen deals with China to build three new railroads to link the two countries, coordinate with central banks, health and media, and to address trade issues.  China is looking for ways to skirt Western sanctions through trade deals with neighboring countries (VOA).

Tim Walz made an impression in China, students and teachers say / August 20, 2024

Current Democratic VP candidate Tim Walz has a rich history in traveling to China as an educator just as China began opening its doors to cultural exchanges in the early ‘90s. Some say his cumulative experiences in China could serve well if the democratic team wins the election.  Republicans, however, are concerned about his pro-China stance and would like to know more about any connections he has to the CCP (NPR).

Youth unemployment in China jumps to 17.1% in July / August 17, 2024

China’s youth unemployment increased to 17.1% in July, up from June’s 13.2%.  The figure was still below the staggering 21.3% from June in 2023, before the government stopped reporting the unemployment figure for many months.  Other economic figures reveal that China is still struggling with a poor economy (VOA).

China resubmitted plans for a super embassy in London / August 13, 2024

With the Labour Party running England’s government as of July, China has resubmitted its bid to build a new “super embassy” in London, which would be about 10 times larger than its current embassy.   The new structure would be built on the Royal Mint Court, which also has historic value to England.  The Labour Party is reviewing the government’s stance toward China, and this will be a test for the Party to apply its philosophy to a potentially detrimental matter (VOA).

Chinese commercial bank chairman killed, stabbed in office / August 16, 2024

Zheng Zhiying, the chairman of the state-owned bank of Handan in the northern province of Hebei, was stabbed to death in his downtown office on Thursday, with a recently laid-off subordinate taken into custody as a suspect of the killing.  Chinese banks have been under pressure in China’s struggling economy and the government’s tightening regulation (SCMP).

China Factory Figures Comes in Weak, But It’s Not All Bad News / August 15, 2024

Retail sales in China beat forecasts in July, suggesting that Chinese consumers are “getting their mojo back” as China’s economy tries to recover.  Other data showed targets were almost made in other sectors.  This brief article suggests China is moving into a new economic era of services and consumer spending rather than manufacturing (Barron’s).

China pledges billions more in funds to aid disaster-stricken farm regions / August 13, 2024

China’s Central Bank pledged $14 billion (US dollars) to banks in those regions affected by Typhoon Gaemi that struck its eastern seaboard, as well as heat-stricken areas in northern China.  The country has suffered its worst agricultural losses due to natural disasters since 2021(Reuters).

China Admits Its Ship Damaged Baltic Natural Gas Pipeline by Accident / August 12, 2024

Chinese authorities admit that a Hong Kong-flagged ship owned by a mainland Chinese company accidentally damaged a natural gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea last October.  It is possible that a large anchor caused a leak in the pipeline during a strong storm.  Finland and Estonia, who share the pipeline, will continue their investigation of the incident (OilPrice.com).

Philippines protests Chinese Air Force jets' firing of flares in the path of patrol plane / August 12, 2024

Chinese Air Force jets fired flares in front of a Philippine Air Force patrol plane over a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, marking the first time China has claimed sovereignty in the air over a disputed area with the Philippines.  The US, Canada, and Australia have all had similar encounters with China in the South China Sea (ABC News).

China firm claims world's fastest-charging EV battery / August 14, 2024

The Chinese automaker, Zeekr, declared that its EV batteries charge faster than even Tesla’s and BYD’s batteries, claiming that their batteries will charge from 10% to 80% in 10 and ½ minutes.  Even in cold weather, they say it will charge the same amount, but in a half hour.  Even if its claims are exaggerated, if it comes close to what the industry’s leaders can do, it is an achievement for Zeekr (BBC).

China's Wang Yi meets with Myanmar's military boss as civil war strains relations / August 14, 2024

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Myanmar’s military leader, General Min Aung Hlaing, as Myanmar’s resistant forces have recently won victories against the military government near the border with China.  The military is increasingly becoming anti-Chinese, with some suspecting that China is aiding the militia groups.  China is interested in keeping its investments safe in the country (ABC News).

Army sergeant pleads guilty to selling U.S. military secrets to China / August 14, 2024

Sgt. Korbein Schultz pled guilty to six indictments in a federal court on Tuesday; he is accused of giving sensitive information on US military strategies and weaponry to a conspirator allegedly from Hong Kong.  Schultz received $42,000 for the information he released; he will be sentenced next January (CBS News).

Custody ruling in same-sex case hailed as LGBTQ+ milestone in China / August 14, 2024

A Chinese woman, nicknamed Didi, who lives in Shanghai has won the right to make monthly visits with her daughter after her same-sex relationship fell apart five years ago.  The couple has two children, both the biological offspring of Didi’s wife, although Didi was the child’s surrogate mother through an IVF procedure.  This is the first time the courts have recognized the rights of a same-sex parent.  Polls show China’s society is very tolerant of the concept of same-sex couples and marriage (The Guardian).

The ins and outs of Chinese superstitions / August 16, 2024

August 18th is the beginning of “ghost month” in China, with the Hungry Ghost Festival kicking off the observance in the 7th month of the lunar calendar.  Chinese society has many superstitions, and this period brings many of them to the fore as the gates of hell are said to open up, releasing the spirits to meander among humans (SCMP).

China, Government-Controlled Three-Self Church Celebrates 70th Anniversary / August 14, 2024

A symposium celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Three-Self Church was held in early August this year, but the conference appeared to advocate the CCP’s dictates from its third Plenary session held earlier this year rather than the teachings of Scripture.  Pastors who gave speeches encouraged their fellow pastors to integrate socialist ideals into their sermons and Bible studies and advocate for the sinicization of Christianity (Bitter Winter).

Zheng Qinwen wins China’s first Olympic tennis singles gold /  August 5, 2024

Chinese tennis player Zheng Qinwen won gold in Paris this week, supported by a crowd of fans shouting “Jia You” which is similar to the English phrase, “Hit the gas!” or “Punch it!”  She is the first to win a gold medal for China in singles tennis, but her ultimate goal goes beyond the Olympics:  to win a Grand Slam Singles Title (AP News).

China ends US Olympic reign over men's 4x100 medley relay / August 5, 2024

After a 64-year run for the United States’ men’s 4x100 medley relay, China’s men’s team captured gold just.55 seconds before the US team.  Chinese teammate Pan Zhanle celebrated his 20th birthday with the gold win.  France took the bronze medal (CNA).

Taiwan cheers Olympics badminton triumph over China in politically charged contest / August 4, 2024

Taiwan won its first gold medals against China in a tense badminton showdown on Sunday as Wang Chi-Lin and Lee Yang played against China’s Liang Weikeng and Wang Chang. Wang and Lee had also one gold at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.  Taiwanese fans in Paris were not allowed to bear their Taiwanese flag, nor could they refer to their home as Taiwan due to “political messaging” (Reuters).

Taiwan is readying citizens for a Chinese invasion. It’s not going well / August 3, 2024

Taiwan is struggling to be ready to respond to an attack by China if President Xi makes good on his promise to reclaim the island nation by force.  A lack of materials and dedicated instructors are hampering the military’s attempts at training soldiers for an invasion.  Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te also faces the propaganda of the China-friendly opposition party, the Kuomintang, and Taiwanese reservists are not showing up for mandated “refresher” courses to maintain military readiness (The Washington Times).

China stands by Maduro in Venezuela to safeguard its investments / August 3, 2024

While many Venezuelans and democratic countries have condemned the presidential election results in favor of Nicolas Maduro, China has fully endorsed Maduro, an important geo-political partner for China and its ambitions in South America.  But China may also be concerned about its investments in Venezuela, including loans that make up almost half of China’s investments in the entire continent and the Caribbean (VOA).

Oil sits at eight-month low on weak US jobs, China data / August 3, 2024

Lower economic data from the US and China’s struggling economy brought oil prices down recently, while the troubled Middle East conflict between Israel and Lebanon supported oil prices, making for a volatile environment in the crude market.  Demand for oil is down in China and India, and concerns about a recession in the US also lowered demand prospects (Mint).

China asks large state financial institutions to drop auditor PwC / August 5, 2024

For the past several months, Chinese regulators have been advising China’s largest financial institutions to drop PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) as their auditor.  PwC had been a market leader in accounting, contracting with 110 companies, including Evergrande.  That unfortunate connection is the reason for the Ministry of Finance to urge the institutions to end their relationship with PwC (Reuters).

China’s stuttering economy darkens global corporate growth outlook / August 8, 2024

International companies are feeling the frosty chill of China’s cold economic recovery that has dragged on after the pandemic was declared over almost two years ago.  China’s government has tried to stimulate consumer demand, but the response has been tepid, unfortunately.  Forecasts suggest that it may take still longer before we see any improvement (Hellenic Shipping News).

US expected to propose barring Chinese software in autonomous vehicles / August 4, 2024

Citing concerns about national security risks, the Biden Administration plans to propose barring Chinese software used in autonomous and “connected” vehicles from the US.  Manufacturers would have to verify that none of their vehicle software came from a "foreign entity of concern," such as China (VOA).

China will launch first satellites of constellation to rival Starlink / August 6, 2024

China’s state-owned company, Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST), plans to launch thousands of satellites into orbit around the globe by 2030 in an effort to rival SpaceX’s Starlink “constellation” of satellites already operating in space. China sees Starlink as a security threat and plans to launch three separate satellite “constellations” (Reuters).

Cambodia breaks ground on a China-funded canal: “it will be built ‘no matter the cost’” / August 5, 2024

China is partnering with Cambodia to build a 111 mile-long canal that will connect its capital, Phnom Penh, to the sea, but the new canal could divert precious water from the Mekong River, threatening Vietnam’s rice industry and millions of people dependent on that water.  Others have raised other environmental concerns the canal could cause (AP News).  

‘A pen for many office workers’: China warns citizens of security risks from AI writing tools / August 5, 2024

In its effort to protect state secrets and enhance national security, China’s anti-spy agency warned Chinese citizens to avoid using AI writing tools when dealing with sensitive information, since the AI companies could access sensitive information from the back end, and foreign adversaries could extract it from the cloud by planting viruses.  Unfortunately, AI tools save time and effort, making them a tempting option (CNA).

China, ISI behind escalation of student-led protests in Bangladesh / August 6, 2024

Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country after facing violent opposition from protests led by the student wing Islami Chhatra Shibir (ICS).  Pakistan’s external intelligence agency and China are suspected to be supporting the protests to establish an anti-India, Taliban-like government in Bangladesh that would favor China and Pakistan.  Previously, Hasina had been developing ties with India (Deccan Herald).

Chinese internet users praise Bangladesh protesters, military / August 6, 2024

Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and fled the country after facing violent protests from student groups, causing China to lose a close ally.  Bangladesh joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative in 2016 and held joint military exercises for the first time in May.  Chinese social media generally praised the protestors’ efforts against Hasina’s government (VOA).

Hasina’s exit sets back India-Bangladesh ties, China could gain / August 8, 2024

It appears that Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had built stronger relations with both India and China during her 15-year reign.  Now, it remains to be seen which way a new government will lean.  Both China and India will try to build ties with opposition parties within the country (VOA).

US, Australia, Canada, Philippines stage maneuvers in disputed South China Sea / August 7, 2024

The US, Australia, Canada and the Philippines held air and naval exercises on Wednesday in the South China Sea to “promote the rule of law” in the contested region.  China held its own military exercises near the Scarborough Shoal in response to the joint exercises.  The Philippines military reported that three Chinese ships “tailed” some of the 4-nation maneuvers (AP News). 

China earns first gold medal of the 2024 Paris Olympics in mixed team air rifle shooting / July 27, 2024

Huang Yuting and Sheng Lihao won the first gold medal for China in the 2024 Olympics in France. They participated in the 10-meter air rifle mixed team event held Saturday morning in the city of Chateauroux.  The pair are just 17 and 19 years old.  China also won the event in 2020 in Japan (CBS News).

Pan Zhanle breaks own world record to win gold medal in men’s 100-meter freestyle / July 31, 2024

Chinese swimmer Pan Zhanle broke his recent world record while winning a gold medal in the 100-meter freestyle on Wednesday.  Pan won by just over a second to beat Kyle Chalmers of Australia and David Popovici of Romania.  The win comes amid controversy over suspected violations of doping among the Chinese swim teams (AP News).

Why the world's anti-doping agency feels stuck between US and China / July 31, 2024

Accusations of doping have been swirling around the Chinese swim teams for the last few years, but the situation has become more political this year around the Paris games.  US lawmakers have submitted a bill to cut off funding for the World Anti-doping Agency (WADA), but the agency defends its findings that food contamination is to blame (BBC).

Researchers stunned by find in 1200 year-old tomb in China / July 28, 2024

An elaborate tomb was discovered in 2018 in the northern province of Shanxi, but the tomb likely belonged to a humble noodle maker, not a king or prince.  Murals detail the life of the deceased, whose wife was also interred in the tomb, and include a painting of a blonde-haired man leading horses and a camel.  The tomb’s owner died in 736 AD (news.com.au).

Philippine forces sail to hotly disputed shoal without incident since deal with China / July 27, 2024

Philippine government personnel safely delivered supplies to its outpost in the Second Thomas Shoal last Saturday without any interference from the Chinese Coast Guard for the first time since the two countries reached an agreement over the contested area in the South China Sea.  The Chinese Coast Guard was informed of the delivery and supervised the process (Fox News).

'Quad' foreign ministers decry dangerous South China Sea actions / July 29, 2024do

Foreign ministers from the so-called “Quad”—Australia, India, Japan, and the US—met in Tokyo last weekend, citing China as the “greatest strategic challenge” in the region.  They planned to promote dialogue to ease tensions, but also committed to improve “domain awareness” for countries in the region so they could be more aware of what’s going on in their respective areas (NBC News).3

US boosts alliance with the Philippines with $500 million funding and pact / July 30, 2024

The US has dedicated $500 million to the Philippines to improve its navy and some of its military bases in preparation for US troops who will assist the country if defensive maneuvers are needed.  The countries are also working on an intelligence-sharing pact to provide more sophisticated weapons and surveillance items (AP News).

Mapped: How the United States uses islands to contain China / July 30, 2024

In order to hem in China’s growing influence in Southeast Asia, the US has negotiated alliances with countries and islands to create three “chains” of defense, with the farthest chain extending from Alaska to Hawaii and south to New Zealand.  But China has also responded by increasing its navy and creating its own alliances with other nations (Sky News).

Mudslide kills 15 people near tourist site in China as tropical storm Gaemi drenches region / July 28, 2024

Tropical storm Gaemi left death and destruction in its path from the Philippines, through Taiwan, and into China’s interior.  A cargo ship sunk with its captain off the coast of Taiwan and a mudslide killed 15 people staying at a house rental in the city of Yuelin in Hunan province.  The area had received about 12 inches of rain in 24 hours (AP News).

Lawmakers from 6 countries say Beijing pressured them not to attend IPAC  / July 28, 2024

Lawmakers planning to attend the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, or IPAC, in Taiwan this week received threatening phone calls and emails from Chinese officials, inquiring about their travel plans to the conference and often warning them to not travel to the conference and/or threatening to report their plans to their superiors (AP News).

Chinese leaders pledge to tilt stimulus towards consumers / July 30, 2024

The Politburo of the Chinese Communist Party announced this week that it would seek to direct an economic stimulus towards consumers rather than infrastructure projects, placing greater buying power into the hands of Chinese citizens.  The move comes after China’s economy missed its second-quarter growth target (Reuters).

China sanctions US Rep. McGovern for ‘interference’ in its domestic affairs / July 31, 2024

China has sanctioned Rep. Jim McGovern in response to his calls for human rights for ethnic minorities in China.  The sanction stems from McGovern’s introduction of a bill calling for support for Tibet that was signed into law by President Biden in June.  The sanction is largely symbolic since McGovern has no assets in China (AP News).

India-China Military Tensions Persist Even as Their Trade Surges / July 31, 2024

While India has put in place economic restrictions against China over the last few years because of its ongoing border dispute with China, India imported $100 billion from China last year while It exported only $16 billion to China.  Its efforts to “decouple” from China did not work.  India is trying to hold the line against China to resolve the border crisis, but its economic ties to China leave little wiggle room (VOA).

Chinese archaeologists unearth 3,400-year-old jade workshop at Sanxingdui ruins / July 24. 2024

With no written history to explain where they came from, the Shu Kingdom that once flourished in southwestern China three to four thousand years ago has remained a mystery. However, the archeological site at Sanxingdui has revealed an array of relics to shed at least some light on the enigmatic culture (SCMP).

CrowdStrike-Microsoft outage: Chinese cybersecurity firms take victory lap / July 21, 2024

After the Crowdstrike outage that crippled Microsoft Windows operations throughout the globe —except in most of China, where mostly foreign businesses that used Microsoft were affected-- China’s cybersecurity firms promoted their own software, emphasizing their reliability and the safety of being independent of other global companies (Yahoo Finance).

Was deadly bridge collapse a freak accident or result of China's race to modernize? / July 21, 2024

A portion of an expressway in Shaanxi province in central China collapsed during flooding—the second collapse this season—killing at least 12 as an entire section of highway collapsed into the raging river.  Locals say a log pile had built up against the highway’s pillars, possibly causing the support to buckle.  Others wonder, however, if China’s rapid infrastructure schedule caused some to cut corners (Sky News).

China braces for twin tropical cyclones after deadly flash floods /July 22, 2024

After enduring torrential rains and flooding in the interior of the country over the weekend, two cyclones were forecasted to hit China’s eastern seaboard, the first on Sunday and the second later in the week.  Prapiroon, the first cyclone, was expected to bring torrential rain to Hainan and Guangdong, China’s most populated province. Gaemi, the second storm, was expected to brush northern Taiwan before making landfall in China as a typhoon (Reuters).

After spurning China for years, Brazil reveals plan to join Belt and Road Initiative / July 20, 2024

Brazil’s President Lula da Silva declared that his country is now looking into joining China’s Belt and Road Initiative, although he wants to be assured of a few things before signing a deal.  Those would include how advantageous the agreement would be to Brazil, and how it would affect Brazil’s relationships with other allies in the West (SCMP).

China and the Philippines reach deal in effort to stop clashes at fiercely disputed shoal / July 21, 2024

Representatives from China and the Philippines reached an agreement on Sunday regarding the contested 2nd Thomas Shoal, although very few details about the agreement were made available.  Both sides recognize the need for dialogue and diplomacy, especially after recent confrontations caused damage to vessels and injuries to some Philippine Navy personnel (NBC News).

China cuts several major interest rates to support fragile economy / July 22, 2024

China cut short- and long-term interest rates on Monday in a surprise move to shore up a flagging economy.  The move comes after a weaker-than-expected 2nd quarter economic report and the Chinese Communist Party leaders’ recent plenum.  The People’s Bank of China also lowered some rates (Reuters).

Hamas and Fatah sign unity deal in Beijing aimed at Gaza governance / July 23, 2024

Hamas, Fatah, and a dozen other factions have signed an agreement negotiated by China to form a unity government to govern Gaza after the fighting with Israel ceases.  The deal intends to block Israel from forming a government that would be more compatible with Israeli interests.  Conflict between Hamas and Fatah had been going on since 2006 (Al Jazeera).

We bought everything needed to make $3 million worth of fentanyl / July 25, 2024

Reuters bought everything needed to make $3 million worth of fentanyl from a Chinese chemical seller. All it took was $3,600 and a web browser. "Such deals are astonishingly easy – and reveal how drug traffickers are eluding efforts to halt the deadly trade behind the fentanyl crisis."

China Blasts US Tibet-China Dispute Bill, Vows to Defend Its Interests / July 13, 2024

President Biden signed the Tibet-China Dispute Act into law on Saturday, forcing pressure on China to hold talks with Tibetan leaders over the region’s desires for greater autonomy if the US puts the Act into motion.  China strongly rejected the new law stating that it directly affects China’s sovereignty and that it would defend its interests.  China’s talks with Tibetan leaders have stalled since 2010 (US News).

China’s economic growth slows amid weak retail spending / July 15, 2024

Annual retail sales growth in China slowed from 3.2% to 2% in the second quarter of 2024, marking the weakest growth in eighteen months.  The housing sector continues to drag on the economy as the overall Chinese economy grew at an annual rate of 4.7%, lower than the 5.1% anticipated by financial markets.  Strong exports in June, however, compensated for low consumer demand (The Guardian).

China’s Communist Party will signal its approach to the country’s challenges this week /July 16, 2024

China’s Communist Party will meet this week in its “third plenum” to set policies for economic growth and national security concerns.  Many believe that the CCP’s crackdown on “corruption,” private businesses, and society may be stifling the economy and that some easing in this area would be helpful.  Local governments are also heavily in debt and may divert funds from other needed areas (NBC News).

China vows to deepen reforms, ex-minister Qin leaves top party body / July 18, 2024

The CCP in its third plenum vowed to continue reforms both to restore the economy by “advancing modernization” and a “high-standard socialist market economy” and to strengthen national security.  Former Foreign Minister Qin Gang, as well as former Defense Minister Li Shangfu were removed from the party (Kyodo News).

Oil prices ease on demand concerns in China / July 15. 2024

Demand for oil in China fell in the second quarter of 2024, partly due to planned maintenance of oil refineries.  US demand for oil was healthy, however, providing a little balance to the global market.  China’s refinery output fell 3.7% in June (Reuters).

China tries to hit more birds with one stone in property rescue push / July 16, 2024

In May, the Chinese government ordered Chinese cities to buy up newly built apartments and turn them into affordable housing and offer subsidies to households to purchase them.  Some cities saw this as an opportunity to attract needed skilled workers, such as teachers or medical professionals, and to halt population outflows from smaller cities to major cities (CNA).

Chip stocks shed over $500 billion in value on China trade fears / July 17, 2024

Semiconductor stocks fell sharply on the news that the US may increase sanctions on chip sales to China, as well as former President Trump’s comment that Taiwan should pay the US for the military support the US gives the island.  NVDA, Broadcom, AMD, and Arm stocks all fell between 7% and 10%, but US chip manufacturer stocks all rose (Yahoo Finance).  

How the Trump Pennsylvania rally shooting looked from China / July 14, 2024

Former US President Trump’s assassination attempt became the top trending news buzz on Chinese social media, sparking comments from Chinese citizens from neutral to gloating, and many calling attention to US gun policy and its harmful effects on US society.  The New York Post initially claimed the shooter was a Chinese man, but quickly changed that to a “white” man (SCMP).

China, Russia Start Naval Drills, Days After NATO Says Beijing Enables Ukraine War / July 14, 2024

Chinese and Russian naval forces began joint drills on Sunday at a port in southern China, just days after NATO held meetings in Washington, D.C., and claimed China was enabling Russia’s war in Ukraine.  Chinese officials, however, denied any connection between the drills and NATO’s accusation (Radio Free Europe).

China suspends nuclear talks with Washington / July 18, 2024

Citing recent arms sales to Taiwan, China suspended nuclear arms-control talks with the US, following Russia’s lead to cease treaty-mandated communication with the US.  China stated that the arms sales “seriously compromised the political atmosphere.  The Biden Administration would like to see the nuclear arms issue as separate from other geo-political matters (NBC News).

Fire kills 16 at a shopping mall in southwestern China / July 17, 2024

A fire broke out in a 14-story building housing a shopping mall, a restaurant, offices, and a movie theater, killing 16 people.  The fire was reported at about 6 pm as thick black smoke and flames poured out of the windows of the lower floors of the building.  Such fires are somewhat common in China, with 947 fatalities due to fires this year through May 20th (ABC News).

Commentary: China can’t stop Russia. It likely won’t even try / July 9, 2024

China has the economic clout over Russia to force it to negotiate peace with Ukraine, but China has no reason to do so.  The conflict does not threaten China’s interests, and China would fare better strategically if it had a strong Russia at its side.  Additionally, Russia’s war on NATO’s steps, along with simmering trouble in the Middle East, spreads the US’ military elasticity to a point where it may have trouble dealing with an Asian conflict—Taiwan (CNA).

Hungary’s Orban meets China’s Xi in mission to end Russia-Ukraine war / July 9, 2024

Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban recently began his “rotational term” as President of the EU by making unofficial trips to Ukraine, Russia, and China in an effort to promote peace talks and resolve the war in Ukraine.  Orban has stronger relationships with Russia and China than most other EU nations, but many of his counterparts in the EU disliked the mixed message Orban made with these trips (Al Jazeera).

China slams NATO’s ‘provocations, lies, smears’ over its Russia ties / July 11, 2024

NATO accused China of enabling Russia’s war effort in Ukraine by supporting Russia’s economy and supplying Russia with dual-use parts that can be used in the production of military supplies, sparking a strong reaction from China.  China accused NATO of being full of “cold war mentality” and said its own position is to promote peace talks (Al Jazeera).

Chinese developers scramble as OpenAI blocks access in China / July 8, 2024

AI frontrunner OpenAI recently announced that its services would no longer be available in China beginning on July 9th but did not go into detail regarding the reasons for such a move.  The gap that was made, however, opened the door for Chinese domestic AI companies to scramble for new customers, and forces those companies to accelerate their product development to meet what OpenAI once held there (The Guardian).

China leads the world in adoption of generative AI, survey shows / July 9, 2024

In a global survey of 1600 industry representatives, China took the lead in the percentage of industries that have adopted the use of generative AI, clocking in at 83% as compared to 65% for the US and 54% for the global average.  China also leads the world in its use of “continuous automated monitoring” (CAM), a controversial form of surveillance (Reuters).

A driverless car hits a person crossing against the light in China / July 9, 2024

An autonomous “robotaxi” lightly struck a pedestrian in the city of Wuhan last Sunday but caused no obvious external injuries.  The pedestrian apparently was walking against the light, so while the fault falls on the pedestrian, the situation raises questions about how autonomous vehicles should respond to unusual circumstances, such as when people violate the law, such as in this case (ABC News).

China’s consumers up travel interest despite worries / July 11, 2024

A survey of Chinese young adults and middle-aged citizens showed that at least half of them plan to spend more money on travel, food, and clothing, although they are still concerned about the economy and may “reverse travel,” that is, they will avoid high-profile tourist destinations in favor of lesser-known and cheaper places (SCMP).

Across China, more than 50 sprawling ghost cities sit eerily abandoned / July 9, 2024

The effect of China’s housing market bust and the struggling economy can be seen in over 50 “ghost cities” all across China where complete city structures—apartment and condo complexes, skyscraper business towers, shopping malls, and in some places, meticulously planned neighborhoods—all stand empty and crumbling.  The sobering spectacle becomes disheartening when one realizes the economic loss so many Chinese citizens are enduring (news.com.au).

Man caught smuggling 100 snakes in his trousers / July 9, 2024

A man was caught trying to smuggle 104 snakes of different types kept in plastic bags in his pants as he passed through customs between Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China.  China is “one of the world’s biggest animal trafficking hubs” in the world (BBC).

China launches high-level probe after paper says fuel tankers used to carry cooking oil / July 9, 2024

Numerous Chinese government agencies, Chinese agro-businesses, and food transportation companies are involved in an investigation to determine if some chemical tankers were used to transport cooking oil and other foods after a media report was published revealing it had happened.  Similar incidents occurred in 2005 and 2015 (SCMP).

Multiple Chinese warships spotted near Alaska, U.S. Coast Guard says / July 11, 2024

Four Chinese ships—three on Saturday and one on Sunday—were spotted in the US Exclusive Economic Zone off the coast of Alaska and were monitored by a US Coast Guard cutter until they left the area.  The Chinese ships reported that they were in the area for “freedom of navigation operations.”  Similar situations have occurred for the last three years, as well (CBS News).

Japan navy destroyer enters Chinese waters near Taiwan, Beijing complains / July 11, 2024

A Japanese navy destroyer entered Chinese waters north of Taiwan on the 4th of July without notifying China, causing China to lodge a complaint.  The ship sailed within twelve nautical miles from the Chinese coast for about 20 minutes.  Japan excused the ship’s route as a “technical error” (Reuters).

China’s new large amphibious aircraft goes into production and final assembly / July 5, 2024

China’s new amphibious aircraft, the AG600, has gone into production this summer to fill a growing demand for search and rescue operations.  It is the world’s largest amphibious aircraft and can transport cargo or passengers.  The plane can reach anywhere in the South China Sea from Hainan province in southern China in four hours (SCMP).

China seizes Taiwan fishing boat with crew near Chinese coast / July 3, 2024

China seized and then took a Taiwan fishing boat with five crew members to a Chinese port after the Chinese coast guard found it fishing in Chinese waters off the Kinmen Islands, which are controlled by Taiwan, but are very close to the Chinese mainland.  The Coast Guard also said the fishermen were fishing during China’s no-fishing ban and that its nets were designed to catch squid that are smaller than the minimum size (ABC News--Australia).

A tell-tale sign that China could be preparing for war / July 4, 2024

China is stockpiling minerals and resources in a similar fashion to Germany and Japan before World War II, raising concern among some analysts that China is preparing for War and preparing for sanctions that might occur if it did act on that presumption.  A former US Naval Intelligence officer also claimed that China is “militarizing its society” in preparation for a showdown (The Economic Times).

Putin and Xi hail ‘stability’ of China-Russia partnership on SCO sidelines / July 3, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping hailed the growing strength of their strategic partnership at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Kazakhstan on Wednesday, stating that their relationship is the strongest it has ever been.  The SCO is a regional strategic bloc designed to counter Western organizations like the G20 and NATO (Al Jazeera).

Lawmakers sound alarm on Cuba-China threat after spy base images surface / July 4, 2024

Florida Congressman Carlos Gimenez warned of China’s increasing activity at spy bases on the island of Cuba, less than 100 miles from his district in the Florida Keys and southern Florida where the US has significant military bases.  He and other US representatives lamented the Biden Administration’s efforts to placate the Communist countries rather than standing up to them (Fox News).

Italy seizes Chinese military drones heading to Libya, authorities say / July 2, 2024

Italy has seized component parts of 2 aerial Chinese drones found in shipping containers and concealed by wind turbine parts.  The drones were destined for Libya and were seized because of an embargo against that country due to civil conflict since 2011.  Libya has also recently been increasing ties with Russia, allowing Russia to stockpile tons of military equipment intended for Russia’s military involvement in Africa (Defense News).

China and the Philippines hold crucial talks after intense clash in disputed waters / July 2, 2024

Representatives from China and the Philippines met on Tuesday to ease tensions between the two countries after a clash occurred between the Chinese Coast Guard and Philippine transport ships in the Second Thomas Shoal in mid-June.  A Philippine soldier was wounded, and two boats were damaged.  Because shots were not fired, the US did not have to intervene to uphold a defense treaty it has with the Philippines (AP News).

Navy observes ‘drastic reduction’ of Chinese vessels in West Philippine Sea / July 2, 2024

The Philippine Navy noticed a reduction of about 25% in the number of Chinese ships in the West Philippine Sea at the end of June.  The decrease may be due to an upcoming meeting between China and the Philippines, the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM), that Manila hopes to convene this month (ABS CBN News).

China and the Philippines jointly rescue stranded Filipino fishermen in humanitarian effort / July 1, 2024

In a rare expression of humanitarian aid, the Philippine Coast Guard and the Chinese Coast Guard joined efforts to assist a Philippine fishing boat that experienced an engine explosion, injuring two of its eight fishermen on board.  At first, the Chinese vessel attempted to block the Philippine vessel, but once the Philippines’ intentions were made known, it offered to help (C

China's BYD posts 21% jump in quarterly EV sales, closes gap with Tesla / July 2, 2024

Chinese automaker BYD saw a 21% increase in sales of electric vehicles in the second quarter of 2024, edging closer to Tesla’s recorded sales, but not surpassing them for the second quarter in a row.  Sales of new energy vehicles including EVs and plug-in hybrids in China made up almost half of total car sales in May (Yahoo Finance).

China's Xi says army faces 'deep-seated' problems in anti-corruption drive / June 19, 2024

Chinese President Xi Jinping warned that there continue to be “deep-seated problems” of corruption in the People’s Liberation Army.  He spoke at a 3-day military political work conference in the Chinese Communist Party’s founding city, Yanan. More than a dozen high-level PLA and rocket force officials were removed last year, with more on the chopping block at an upcoming conference of the CCP (Reuters).

China's new rule allowing maritime trespasser detention takes effect / June 15, 2024

A new regulation took effect on Saturday in China, stating that China now has the right to detain for up to 60 days anyone found transgressing the waters claimed by China in the South China Sea.  The regulation is the full implementation of a 2021 law giving China’s coastguard the right to use weapons in any dispute on its claimed waters (Kyodo News).

Filipino soldiers fought off Chinese coast guard 'with bare hands' / June 17, 2024

Another conflict between Chinese coast guard ships and Philippine supply vessels at the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea on Monday as Chinese guardsmen pointed knives, swords, and spears at Philippine soldiers as they were trying to bring supplies to fellow soldiers on a grounded ship in the shoal.  The Chinese even boarded some of the ships and seized weapons (BBC News).

Philippines demands China return rifles and pay for boat damage after hostilities / June 19, 2024

Calling China’s attack on Philippine supply ships in the Second Thomas Shoal an “act of piracy,” the Philippines’ military chief demanded that China return the rifles and other equipment its coast guardsmen took on Monday, and that China pay for the damage that was done to its boats.  China claimed its guardsmen acted in accordance with the law (AP News).

After injury in South China Sea, U.S. cites risk of "more violent" confrontation / June 18, 2024

The Biden Administration condemned the Chinese coastguard’s “ramming” of one of its ships into a Philippine supply ship in the Second Thomas Shoal in which a Philippine soldier lost his right thumb.  National Security Council spokesman John Kirby called China’s actions “provocative” and could lead to something much more violent (CBS News).

China changed village names 'to erase Uyghur culture' / June 19, 2024

Since 2010, the Chinese government has been changing the names of Uyghur cities in the northwestern region of the country, sometimes replacing religious or strong cultural terms with Chinese names that harmonize with Chinese Communist ideology.   A study by Human Rights Watch found 3600 city names had been changed over this period, but a Chinese official at the Chinese embassy in London rejected the claim (BBC News).

China is the true power in Putin and Kim’s budding friendship / June 18, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited North Korea this week, staging the event to make the West concerned about a growing alliance between the two sanctioned countries.  But China is also watching, not eager to see the two national leaders bonding.  President Xi is aware of the ramifications if Russia and North Korea tease the West; usually, the West responds with more military presence where China doesn’t want it (BBC News).

China targets Europe’s farmers, not its automakers, in response to EU EV tariffs / June 18, 2024

China is launching a probe into the EU’s pork industry, likely in response to the EU’s tariffs on electric cars exported from China, which will begin in July.  China’s consumption of pork from Europe peaked in 2020 when a swine disease decimated its pork population.  China said the investigation could take a year or more to complete (AP News).

China says G7 statement 'full of arrogance, prejudice and lies' / June 17, 2024

The G7’s end-of-summit statement heavily criticized China for its aggressive stance against Taiwan and its claims in the South China Sea, as well as its suspected support of Russia by supplying the country with dual-use items for its war in Ukraine.  China’s Lin Jian charged that the statement “slandered and attacked” China (VOA).

Southern China faces heavy floods, and landslides kill at least 9 / June 17, 2024

While northern China has experienced drought recently, flooding in southern China has claimed nine lives, with many more missing.  Millions of dollars of crops have also been lost due to flooding and landslides.  Flood-related disasters also claimed seventeen lives last month across China (AP News).

Taiwan military drones unlikely to hasten US ‘hellscape’ against Chinese attack / June 18, 2024

Taiwan plans to purchase nearly 1000 drones for its defense against an attack from China’s mainland.  The intent is to flood the skies with so many drones the volley would slow China’s attack long enough to allow the US to step up its defense on behalf of Taiwan. Some, however, say the strategy probably won’t work, at least in the short term (SCMP).

Australia’s Albanese and China’s Li hold ‘candid’ talks in Canberra / June 17, 2024

China’s Premier Li Qiang was in Australia for four days, meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.  The two held frank and “candid” discussions on numerous topics and the countries’ strong trade relationship.  China recently removed tariffs on Australian goods but still holds Australian political prisoner Yang Hengjun (Al Jazeera).

‘Elimination’ of Taiwan is China’s great national cause, Lai says / June 16, 2024

Taiwan’s President William Lai Ching-te spoke at a military academy’s 100th anniversary on Sunday, stating that defending Taiwan is the “highest mission” of Taiwan’s people.  China sees the annexation of the island as the means of rejuvenating the Chinese people, and any attempt at independence as a cause for war (Al Jazeera).

Gold Dips Below $2,300 as Jobs Dash Fed Bets, China Buying Pause / June 7, 2024

Undercut by a strong jobs market reported in the US and China’s refrain from buying gold in May, gold values dropped 3.7%.  Other metals, like silver, titanium, and copper also fell.  China has been hoarding gold since November of 2022 but began purchasing less and less since February of this year (Yahoo Finance).

Volvo shifting EV production to Belgium to avoid China tariffs / June 9, 2024

Volvo Cars began producing EVs in Belgium rather than China to avoid potential tariffs placed by the EU after its investigation into suspected subsidies from the Chinese government that made its EVs more affordable. By building the cars in Belgium, Volvo would avoid the tariffs.  Volvo is majority-owned by the Chinese company Geely (Yahoo Finance).

EU threatens China EVs with tariffs of up to 38% / June 12, 2024

The EU’s investigation into Chinese subsidies in the production of EVs made in China has resulted in a set of tariffs against the vehicles made in China.  The tariffs vary based on the auto companies’ participation status in the investigation—the more the company cooperated with the investigation, the lower the tariff.  Further dialogue between the EU and China may halt or change the tariffs that are to be implemented starting July 4th (BBC).

Backlash in mainland China over Taiwan comment by Nvidia’s Jensen Huang / June 7, 2024

Jensen Huang, the founder of microchip giant Nvidia, referred to Taiwan as a country when he referred to Taiwan as a country in an impromptu interview that aired on May 29th.  In response, Chinese citizens and media outlets condemned the company and its founder for the reference, with some saying the mainland should boycott Nvidia. Twenty percent of Nvidia’s revenue comes from China (SCMP).

Why is China so annoyed over Modi's reply on X? / June 8, 2024

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently won an election for his third term as Prime Minister. When Taiwan President Ching-te Lai congratulated him on X, Modi responded with a thank you and a desire to increase political and economic ties between Taiwan and India.  China did not appreciate the diplomatic exchange, saying it violated the one-China policy (The Economic Times).

China warned to prepare for hotter than average summer / June 8, 2024

Forecasters are warning that China will face a hotter summer than average, although not likely as hot for as long a period of time as the country experienced in 2022.  India, Pakistan, and other southern Asian countries have already had a month of 110+ degree (F.) weather as the region experiences the shift from an El Niño weather pattern in the Pacific to a La Niña (SCMP).

China Says US Provoking Arms Race in Moves into South China Sea / June 9, 2024

China accused the US of provoking an arms race in the South China Sea as it supports the Philippines and other coastal nations in the region against China’s territorial claims.  However, China claims almost the entirety of the South China Sea, establishing coast guard ships 1000 kilometers from its own mainland (Newsmax).

China Issues Nuclear Statement to US / June 12, 2024

China’s embassy in the US accused the US of stoking the nuclear arms race rather than encouraging disarmament, but a US National Security Council official said the US is only considering a buildup because Russia, China, and North Korea are increasing their stockpiles at a “breakneck” speed.  Both sides accuse the other of rejecting diplomatic solutions (Newsweek).

4 U.S. college instructors injured in stabbing attack in China / June 10, 2024

Four instructors from Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, Iowa were stabbed while walking through a park in Jilin, China on Monday.  Such attacks against foreigners have been very rare, and the victims were recovering from their injuries.  A 55-year-old man had been arrested on Monday, but no motive had been given (NBC News).

Taiwan arrests former Chinese Navy captain over illegal speedboat arrival / June 11, 2024

A 60-year-old Chinese Navy official drove a boat into Taipei harbor and the Tamsui River before being detained by Taiwan officials, stating that he was trying to defect.  Taiwan, however, is investigating whether this is another “grey zone” effort by China to test Taiwan’s response to minor incursions (Al Jazeera).

TTP’s Killing of Chinese Citizens in Pakistan Presents Afghan Taliban with Dilemma / May 30, 2024

Attacks on expat Chinese in Afghanistan by factions of the Afghan Taliban are threatening Afghanistan's relationship with China at a time when the country needs all the friends it can get.  China remained committed to its development investment in Pakistan and Afghanistan, but the attack leaves Afghanistan in a catch-22 between its economy and other Islamists (The Jamestown Foundation).

South China Sea: Why is Beijing so aggressive? / June 3, 2024

In an interview with a Chinese delegate at the Shangri-La Dialogue conference, a DW journalist learns that China’s aggressive stance, especially in the South China Sea, is due to the United States’ aggression in the region, threatening China’s aims and turning regional countries against China (DW News).

U.S. and China defense chiefs lock horns on Taiwan at Asia security summit / May 31, 2024

U.S. and China’s defense chiefs verbally dug their heals into the ground, not budging on either side regarding the countries’ positions on Taiwan in a series of discussions at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore last week.  Both sides, however, recognized the necessity of keeping dialogue channels open (NBC News).

Marcos sets ‘red line’ with Beijing over South China Sea / June 1, 2024

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. defended his nation’s territory in the South China Sea at the Shangri-La Dialogue summit in Singapore, stating that the death of any Philippine citizen by other aggressors could rise to an “act of war,” and that the Philippines would respond appropriately.  He also cited a treaty with the US that could involve the US responding along with the Philippines if an incident were to arise (The Straits Times).

China: “It’s ‘hard to meet’ discussions on Russia-Ukraine war, citing arrangement issues / June 1, 2024

In response to invitations for talks to resolve the war in Ukraine, Foreign Minister spokesperson Mao Ning stated that complications for meeting China’s needs were making it difficult to solidify the arrangements.  She offered no further explanation.  While China says it remains neutral regarding the war, it has heavily supported Russia and President Putin (AP News).

Zelenskyy:  China is pressuring other countries to skip upcoming Ukraine Talks / June 2, 2024

Switzerland is hoping to host a peace conference in mid-June to resolve the Russia-Ukraine war, but Ukraine’s President Zelensky has accused China of stalling and pressuring other nations not to attend.  One of China’s objections:  Russia has not been invited to the conference (NewsMax).

China ready to ‘forcefully’ stop Taiwan independence: Defense minister / June 2, 2024

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun, speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue conference in Singapore, declared that China is ready to take Taiwan by force and that anyone who would support Taiwan’s independence would be crushed.  He also spoke out against the Philippines’ attempts to claim territory in the South China Sea that China claims (Al Jazeera).

US President Joe Biden open to military action if China invades Taiwan  June 5, 2024

President Biden admitted that the US might involve itself in defense of Taiwan should China attack the island, although he identified different forms of military involvement to hedge his statement.  While the US has declared that the US will not support Taiwan’s independence, it would support the status quo and support Taiwan in its self-defense (Mint).

China lands on Moon's far side in historic sample-retrieval mission / June 2, 2024

China successfully landed its Chang’e-6 spacecraft on the dark side of the moon on Sunday, making it the first country to do so.  The craft will scoop up just under 5 pounds of moon soil to bring back to Earth for analysis.  China plans to place humans on the moon by 2030 (Reuters).

China says MI6 recruited Chinese couple as spies / June 3, 2024

China has accused the British intelligence agency of recruiting two Chinese nationals in Britain to work as spies, continuing a back-and-forth series of arrests and accusations of espionage between China and the West.  China has gone to great lengths to urge its citizens to protect its military information and other state secrets (BBC).

China eyes closer ties with Turkey to take on global ‘power politics’ / June 4, 2024

Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan was in China this week to strengthen ties between China and Turkey and to address a recent slowdown in China’s investment projects in Turkey.  Turkey, a NATO ally, wants to join the BRICS group to increase its economic development.  Turkey has tried to join the EU for decades, but has not yet been successful (SCMP).

Silence and heavy state security in China on anniversary of Tiananmen crackdown / June 3, 2024

Tuesday was the 35th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre in China, but China’s government has removed any mention of the event from social media and has also cracked down on any observances that might have taken place.  A handful of people were arrested.  More observances were held outside of China than in China (ABC News).

Hiker finds pipe feeding China's tallest waterfall / June 6, 2024

A hiker discovered a pipe feeding water to China’s tallest waterfall, took a picture of it, and posted his discovery on China’s social media, drawing millions of views and tens of thousands of likes.  Yuntai park representatives personified the waterfall in their response on social media, stating that the waterfall added the water pipe so that tourists would not be disappointed during the dry season (BBC News).

China wraps up 'punishment' war games around Taiwan / May 25, 2024

China carried out military exercises around Taiwan that it called “Joint Sword-2024A” as well as a “punishment” for Taiwan’s newly inaugurated President Lai Ching-te.  This exercise included 62 Chinese aircraft and 27 naval ships (NBC News).

China stages mock missile strikes on Taiwan after island’s inauguration / May 24, 2024

China’s military exercises around Taiwan last week included mock missile strikes against the island, with their aircraft carrying live missiles during the drills.  While the size of the exercises was smaller than past drills, the Chinese Theater Command appeared to amp up the social media mind game, posting an animated video of bombs falling on major Taiwanese cities and exploding in fireballs (NBC News).

Fearing war with China, civilians in Taiwan prepare for disaster / May 25, 2024

Concerned that Taiwan’s government has not been serious enough about strengthening civil defense and disaster relief services in the event of a Chinese attack on the island, Taiwanese civilians are forming grass root groups, businesses, and training services to better prepare the island’s population to respond not just to a war scenario, but any natural disaster, too. (Al Jazeera).

Japan to Join U.S. in Valiant Shield Exercise, China Continues Military Drills / May 24, 2024

For the first time, Japan’s Military Defense Force will join the US and other nations in the US’s sponsored “Valiant Shield” military exercises in June.  As the geopolitical environment in the Asian Pacific region continues to change, Japan sees the need to strengthen its military defense capabilities and its collaboration with the US and like-minded countries (USNI News).

Biden admin urges China to show 'restraint' in Taiwan / May 25, 2024

The Biden Administration urged China to act with restraint after China’s “Joint Sword—2024A” military exercises took place around Taiwan days after Taiwan’s new president took office.  China responded stating that the US’s remarks were irresponsible, but a former Taiwanese navy captain said China is preparing for war (Fox News).

'Military action will continue until complete reunification': China threatens war / May 25, 2024

China’s rhetoric after its military exercises this month is taking a more threatening tone with expressions becoming more graphic:  “to make the blood of ‘independence forces’ on the island flow,” and those who want independence will be left with their “heads broken and blood flowing” for challenging China’s reunification plan.  China has vowed to take control of the island one way or another (Firstpost).

After China drills, Taiwan president again extends goodwill / May 26, 2024

In spite of China’s harsh response to his inauguration, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te extended a cordial hand toward China as a gesture of goodwill and cooperation.  President Lai would like to increase communication, understanding, and trade with China, but so far, China has “rebuffed” his offers (The Indian Express).

Weapons are on the way, U.S. lawmakers tell Taiwan during visit / May 27, 2024

A delegation of US representatives met with Taiwan’s new President, Lai Ching-te, and assured him that weapons the island had ordered were indeed on the way.  Evidently, Taiwan had ordered them earlier and has gotten a bit impatient for their delivery.  China’s recent military exercises and rhetoric explain why (NBC News).

Expert says the Chinese military could seize Taiwan’s government buildings within an hour / May 27, 2024

Geopolitical analyst Dimitri Alperovitch predicts a Chinese invasion of Taiwan could be over and done with in less than an hour, giving the US and its allies almost no time to commit to Taiwan’s defense, much less entering a costly war with China itself (NBC News).

McCaul warns of global economic catastrophe if China invades Taiwan / May 28, 2024

Texas Republican Michael McCaul, who was part of a US delegation that met with Taiwan’s  President Lai Ching-te this week, warned that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan could spell disaster for the global economy, all because a large portion of semiconductors are made in Taiwan.  If China destroys those factories or takes them over, the results could be devastating (Fox News).

Taiwan’s parliament passes bill pushing pro-China changes / May 28, 2024

Taiwan’s opposition parties passed new legislation that gives them greater control over defense spending and greater oversight of President Lai’s actions.  Supporters of Lai’s Democratic Progressive Party protested in the streets, and DPP representatives accused the opposition of being influenced by China (Al Jazeera).

China, South Korea leaders meet before trilateral talks with Japan / May 26, 2024

China’s premier, Li Qiang, met with South Korea’s president and Japan’s president in separate meetings prior to a trilateral meeting that began last Monday. It is the first trilateral meeting between the three countries since 2019.  No significant results are expected from this meeting, other than the hope that tensions will ease (Al Jazeera).

Rare dispute reveals China and North Korea's ongoing discord over nuclear weapons / May 29, 2024

A statement issued after the trilateral talks between China, South Korea, and Japan included the subject of denuclearization of the Korean peninsula, causing North Korea to criticize China’s part in the statement.  While some may claim the criticism shows a rift between China and North Korea, others say the North’s concern is inconsequential (Fox News).

China’s tightening grip on Islam / May 27, 2024

China’s efforts to sinicize its Muslim population seems to be effective among the largest of China’s ethnic Muslims, the Hui.  In central China, the domes and minarets of many mosques have been removed, mosques are redesigned to look more Chinese, children are forbidden to worship or learn the faith of Islam, CCP doctrine is taught, and mosques are nearly empty (Sky News).

China has threatened trade with some countries after feuds. They're calling 'the firm' / May 26, 2024

When a country does or says something that upsets China, China retaliates with sanctions or minimizing trade.  That happened to Lithuania, who turned to the US for help.  The State Department created a team of eight—the “firm”—to find new markets to rescue Lithuania’s trade situation.  Other countries have done the same (ABC News).

China is banning 'wealth-flaunting' behavior on social media / May 29, 2024

Wealthy online influencers found their sites blocked on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok, on Tuesday, with notices stating the site violated the site’s community guidelines.  The move was part of the government’s crackdown on media it deems undesirable.  While Westerners might decry such censorship, young adults in a depressed economy are negatively affected by such seemingly unattainable happiness (NBC News).

China sentences former asset manager to death for 'extremely large' bribes / May 28, 2024

Bai Tianhui, the former general manager at a subsidiary of Huarong Asset Management, was found guilty of taking excessive bribes and was sentenced to death on Tuesday in a Shanghai court.  His predecessor, Lai Xiaomin, was executed in January 2021 for also accepting millions of dollars in bribes.  China’s banking sector has endured a significant purge from President Xi’s crackdown on corruption (CNA).

Flying taxis to take off in China as Beijing pumps up 'low-altitude economy' / May 18, 2024

Urban scenes out of Star Wars may become reality in China as the Chinese government pushes for the development of the “low-altitude economy,” which will consist of drones, autonomous, flying taxis, and manned aircraft flying below 1000 meters.  Other countries may follow suit, but regulator approval is easier in China (ABC News-Australia).

Atin Ito: China's threats to jail WPS trespassers a desperate move / May 18, 2024

Recently, naval ships from the Philippines and China’s coast guard have clashed near the Scarborough Shoal. More recently, civilian boats and fishermen have been harassed by Chinese vessels, and China has now made a declaration that it will detain—for up to 60 days, without a trial--any civilian that trespasses in its claimed territory (GMA News).

RAY McGOVERN: Russia & China — Two Against One / May 17, 2024

As President Xi welcomed Russian President Putin to Beijing last week, one analyst suggests that the Biden administration may still believe that its original attempt to drive a wedge between the two nations is still a viable option.  But this most recent meeting in Beijing appears to have sealed the “no-limits” partnership—against Washington (Consortium News).

Putin and Xi no longer have a partnership of equals / May 16, 2024

While Putin and Xi’s no-limits partnership appears to present a balanced relationship between the two leaders, Russia’s sanction-based isolation from the West puts Putin in a subservient role to Xi.  Putin needs China to survive, but China is less at risk, yet also needs the West to shore up its own economy (BBC News).

UK defense minister says China working to supply lethal aid to Russia / May 23, 2024

British defense minister Grant Shapps charged China with supplying lethal aid to Russia—now, or in the near future—for its war in Ukraine, although he did not provide direct evidence to support his claim.  He did point to the dramatic increase in trade between the two countries and advised Western nations to wake up.  The Chinese embassy in London rejected his claims (Reuters).

Biden's Chinese EV tariffs don't address national security concerns / May 17, 2024

President Biden announced a 4-fold increase in the Trump Administration’s tariffs on imported Chinese EVs last week, but even members of the Democrat Party say the increase doesn’t go far enough.  Rather, they say all Chinese EVs and smart vehicle tech should be banned because of the ability to monitor so much of US drivers’ lives (CBS News).

China's moves away from US dollar hit new milestone / May 20, 2024

China sold more than $53 billion in US Treasury and agency bonds during the first quarter of 2024, marking a new low in the amount of US bonds that China has.  China is investing more in gold, possibly as a hedge against Western sanctions if it invades Taiwan.  China sees how sanctions have hurt Russia as it invaded Ukraine (Newsweek).

Chinese lawyers accuse court officials of interfering in trial / May 19, 2024

Chinese lawyers happened to notice that a judge was communicating with his superiors via Weibo and receiving instruction from them regarding an ongoing trial.  While China passed a law in 2021 to allow for “key supervision” in four categories of cases, the law does not allow judges to manipulate the outcome of a trial.  Evidence suggests this happens occasionally (SCMP).

Why China’s Taiwan-pop generation is drifting away from the island / May 19, 2024

Mainland Chinese citizens born after the 1990’s grew up on Taiwan-produced music and movies which established bonds of familiarity between the two Chinese cultures. However, the pandemic and the widening gap between the two nations’ political philosophies have curtailed most “people-to-people” exchanges and tourism between the two (SCMP).

Taiwanese leader William Lai sends ‘dangerous signals’ with speech / May 20, 2024

Beijing reacted negatively to President William Lai’s inaugural speech in Taiwan this week, charging Lai with promoting a pro-independence platform for Taiwan.  Lai promoted the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and urged the mainland to stop intimidating the island (SCMP). 

Taiwan's steely leader rewrote the book on how to deal with China / May 18, 2024

Former Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen changed Taiwan’s relationship with China by standing up to its aggression and building somewhat tenuous alliances with other nations in the region, and with the US.  She says the people of Taiwan see themselves as a nation; now she wishes the rest of the world would see that, too (BBC News).

China launches 'punishment' war games around Taiwan / May 23, 2024

In response to the inauguration of Lai Ching-te as Taiwan’s new president and his “pro-independence” stance in his inaugural speech, China began a two-day military exercise around the island as well as around many smaller islands closer to the mainland that Taiwan also claims.  The drills are shorter in duration, but similar to previous exercises, and were expected to occur (Reuters).

China hits Boeing Defense, two others with symbolic sanctions / May 19, 2024

China placed sanctions on three US defense contractors in response to the US’s military support for Taiwan and the inauguration of Taiwan’s new President, Lai Ching-te.  The move is mostly symbolic since these companies don’t do much, if any. business in China (Yahoo! News).

China promises 'friendship' as two warships dock in Cambodia / May 19, 2024

Two Chinese warships docked in a Cambodian port recently in anticipation of joint military exercises with the Cambodian navy.  Just south of that port, however, is the Ream Naval Base, where China has invested a great deal in infrastructure.  That worries the West because China could turn that base into a port for its own warships and supplies (NBC News).

It's tough to pay cash in China:  the government fined a KFC for rejecting banknotes / May 23, 2024

Even before the pandemic, Chinese citizens became accustomed to paying for purchases via their phones or QR codes.  In 2023, 86% of all purchases were cashless and even “card-less.”  But, foreign tourists and the elderly are not accustomed to this method of payment.  So the government is cracking down on companies for refusing cash payments (Yahoo! News).

Vatican reaffirms that Catholic Church is no threat to sovereignty / May 21, 2024

The Vatican reached out to China last week to pacify concerns that the Catholic Church is a threat to China’s sovereignty because of the church’s history of foreign, ecclesiastical leadership in China rather than allowing Chinese bishops to govern the Chinese church themselves.  “Obedience to the pope does not harm one’s love for his country” (ABC News).

In China, poker is out, while 'throwing eggs' is in / May 12, 2024

As foreign investors recede from China’s economic environment, Chinese investment financiers are wooing domestic investors instead, and they are using a Chinese card game called Guandan, also known as “throwing eggs,” as a way to socialize and establish business relationships.  The game has been gaining in popularity over the last year or so (NBC News).

China’s Dead-End Economy Is Bad News for Everyone / May 11, 2024

China’s struggling economy is running out of options for recovery, and the country’s latest attempt to revive its economy by flooding the global market with its excess goods is meeting opposition from the EU and the US.  Large foreign investors in China will see losses if the economy fails; China’s citizens may meet more repression if social unrest sweeps the country (The New York Times).

China's consumer prices rise for third month, signaling demand recovery / May 12, 2024

Consumer prices rose by 0.3% in April over a year ago and core inflation also rose by 0.7%, signaling a slight improvement in China’s economy.  However, analysts still express concern about China’s economy and the continuing faults in the housing sector, consumer demand, and high unemployment that underly it (Reuters).

Commentary: China’s housing mess finally comes for Xi’s own / May 14, 2024

China’s Politburo met in April and announced a plan for the government to buy up existing, excess housing stock in an attempt to shore up the bloated property sector.  The change may be due to the housing blight’s arrival at the door of “state-owned enterprises,” or SOEs, in housing development (CNA). 

China to kick off 1 trillion yuan stimulus bond issues this week / May 13, 2024

In an effort to revive its struggling economy, China announced that it will start issuing 1 trillion yuan in treasury bonds starting this week.  The bonds will carry 20, 30 and 50-year terms.  The revenue will be used to support “key sectors” in China’s flagging economy (Reuters).

Biden set to hit China EVs, strategic sectors with tariffs / May 10, 2024

The Biden Administration plans to increase tariffs on selected goods made in China, increasing tariffs on EVs from 25% to 100%.  Batteries and solar cells will also see an increase.  Last month, the administration also placed tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum, although the US does not import much of either metal from China (Yahoo Finance).

China military says it 'drove away' US destroyer in South China Sea / May 10, 2024

China stated that its navy “drove away” a US destroyer near the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea on May 10th.  The US, however, said that the vessel completed its exercise in the area and then left on its own accord.  Tensions are rising in the region as China claims most of the South China Sea as its own territory (Reuters).

Malaysia’s appetite for oil and gas puts it on collision course with China / May 11, 2024

Malaysia’s shallow, offshore oil and gas reserves are running dry, so the country must look for these commodities further out into the South China Sea.  But Chinese vessels are almost constantly monitoring the waters, making any construction of oil rigs a risky venture of provoking China.  China claims waters that are only 25 km from Malaysia’s shores (The Washington Post).

NATO ally, seen as “model of diplomacy,” endorses China's Ukraine peace plan / May 11, 2024

Hungary’s Viktor Orban met with President Xi last week and established Hungary’s place in China’s Belt and Road Initiative.  President Xi lauded Hungary’s partnership with China as a “model” for other EU nations to follow. Orban accused the rest of Europe of being on the side of war regarding Ukraine; he also endorsed China’s peace plan for Ukraine (Fox News).

Russia’s Putin to visit China in first foreign trip since re-election / May 14, 2024

Newly re-elected Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting China this week for the second time in six months, and marking the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China’s communist rule.  China and Russia’s trade increased by 26.3% in 2023 compared to 2022 in spite of sanctions placed by the US and the West (Al Jazeera).

‘Genuine desire’: Putin backs China peace plan to end Ukraine war / May 15, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised China’s “peace plan” for the war in Ukraine as he traveled to China for a visit with President Xi.  Ukrainian officials, however, called Putin’s remarks “hypocritical” as Russia continues to pummel areas of Ukraine.  President Zelensky wants China to attend a peace summit in June in Switzerland (Al Jazeera).

Former spy for China's secret police reveals operations targeting dissidents  / May 12, 2024

A Chinese spy who “defected” to Australia in 2023 revealed that Chinese operatives are working in Australia and other countries to intimidate, harass, and possibly return suspected Chinese dissidents to China for prosecution if they are found to have spoken against the CCP or President Xi (ABC News).

China Builds World’s First Dedicated Drone Carrier / May 15, 2024

China has built a fourth aircraft carrier, but this one appears to be a drone carrier based on its size and dimensions.  It was built in 2022, but it is not certain if the ship is intended for training (posing as an enemy ship) or for direct combat (Naval News).

China carries Pakistan into space / May 3, 2024

China’s rocket launch last Friday directed to the southern pole of the moon included a Pakistani satellite that will orbit the moon to collect data for Pakistan.  The “ride-along” serves as an example of China’s ambition to host other nations in space travel.  But space travel isn’t the only partnership China has with Islamabad (VOA).

China publicizes for time what it claims is a 2016 agreement with the Philippines / May 3, 2024

China claims that it had a secret, verbal agreement with former Philippine President Duterte, which limited the Philippines’ presence in the South China Sea to fishing boats, while any military vessels or aircraft are limited to the 12 nautical mile region in territorial waters.  The current President, Marcos, said he will rescind any agreement if one exists (ABC News).

China ramps up pressure on Taiwan ahead of presidential inauguration / May 6, 2024

China increased its military presence in the Taiwan Strait recently, both to test the new, incoming administration under President-elect Lai Ching-te and to redefine China’s possession of the Taiwan Strait.  China is also using disinformation, economic coercion, and influence operations within Taiwan to divide the government and the island nation (VOA).

Anthony Albanese has not spoken with Xi Jinping after military confrontation / May 7, 2024

Last Saturday, a Chinese military jet fired flares close to an Australian helicopter over the Yellow Sea (between China and the Korean peninsula) in an effort to repel the helicopter from what China claimed was too close to its airspace.  Australian diplomatic channels lodged complaints, but Australian Prime Minister Albanese has not yet spoken to President Xi about the issue (ABC News).

The US military may have a new leg up on China in the Pacific / May 4, 2024

The US may utilize a fleet of autonomous drones to deliver up to 300 pounds of military equipment, food, or other supplies, preventing potential injuries to the pilots who would otherwise fly traditional aircraft.  The fleet, produced by a California company, could be used in the South Pacific (Fox News).

A Chinese driver is praised for helping reduce casualties in a highway collapse /  May 4, 2024

A Chinese driver received praise from fellow citizens, a foundation, and a charity project that was a subsidiary of Alibaba.  The latter two also gave him an award of just over $1000 USD each.  Wang Xiangnan placed his vehicle sideways on the road to prevent drivers from tumbling into the collapsed area (CTV News).

Two dead, 21 injured after knife attack in hospital in Yunnan province / May 7, 2024

A knife attack occurred at a hospital in southwest China as a young man attacked and killed two people and injured nearly two dozen more.  Mass attacks like this are rare as Chinese citizens cannot own firearms, but knife attacks have recently occurred.  No cause for this attack was given at this time (CAN).

China's president arrives in Europe to reinvigorate ties amidst global tensions / May 5, 2024

President Xi Jinping made a 3-country trip to Europe last week, meeting with leaders in France, Hungary, and Serbia.  Xi wanted to strengthen and build relations with the EU after Covid’s suspension of international interaction, but both French President Macron and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pushed for better trade balances and China’s help to urge Russia to end its war in Ukraine (Yahoo Finance).

Why European leaders are divided over the Chinese president's visit / May 5, 2024

President Xi Jinping’s visit high-lighted divisions across Europe regarding relations with China and other autocracies like Russia.  Serbia and Hungary are more allies of Russia than they are of the US or the West, and it appears Xi is exploiting that division.  When Xi last visited Europe in 2019, there was no pandemic, war in Ukraine or excessively subsidized Chinese products flooding Europe (DW News). 

China and EU-candidate Serbia sign an agreement to build a ‘shared future’ / May 8, 2024

President Xi’s visit to Serbia concluded with an alliance between the two nations for a stronger partnership in investment and trade.  For a number of years, Serbia has participated in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, allowing Chinese mining companies to operate in Serbia.  Serbia has applied for EU membership but appears to be shrinking back from that goal (AP News).  

China suspected of massive cyberattack of UK armed forces database / May 7, 2024

Britain’s Ministry of Defense says a Chinese cyberattack revealed the names and bank account information of tens of thousands of UK military personnel recently.  Similar cyberattacks occurred in 2021 and 2022 and earlier this year (Independent).

China is now engaged in open hybrid warfare against the West / May 4, 2024

Journalist Matthew Henderson warns that China is seeking to exploit any and all weaknesses in liberal Western societies in an effort to shift global power and influence away from the West and to China.  Henderson cites coercive diplomacy, proxy wars, data theft, and influence operations among a number of the battlefronts in this hybrid war (The Telegraph).

China in a Frenzy for Gold, Up 45% Since 2022 / May 6, 2024

Chinese citizens, investors, and its Central Bank are driving the gold market now, pushing the price higher even while high interest rates and a strong US dollar, which typically lower gold’s value, are dominant in Western commerce.  Given China’s economy, it makes sense that people would invest in gold for security (Newsmax).

5 cars from the Beijing auto show that reflect China’s vision for the future / April 26, 2024

China’s Auto Show for 2024 is running through May 4th with over 110 new models in the spotlight.  Telecom companies like Xaiomi and Huawei have entered the market, linking phones and the internet to cars. One model by the Zeekr company turns into a small room when parked (AP News).

Elon Musk visits China as Tesla seeks self-driving technology rollout / April 28, 2024

Elon Musk made an unannounced visit to China on Sunday and spoke with Premier Li Qiang about the rollout of Full Self Driving (FSD) software.  Tesla had introduced FSD in China already in 2020 but has yet to make it available in China (Reuters).  

China expert talks about the dark side of the Chinese auto industry / April 28, 2024

China expert Gordon Chang warned that the Chinese auto industry is flooding the global market with 10 million more vehicles than it can sell in China and that the vehicles can be used to collect personal data on its users.  He also stated some of the parts of EV vehicles are made by forced or slave labor.  Consequently, the US should focus on American auto production (Fox Business).

China’s Chang’e-6 blasts off on mission for rocks from the far side of the moon / May 3, 2024

On Friday morning, China launched the Chang’e-6, a spacecraft headed to the far side of the moon to collect rock samples to bring back to Earth for study.  The voyage will take 53 days as the spacecraft will split into four different modules, each with a role to play for the mission (SCMP).

Why China axed the Strategic Support Force and reshuffled the military / April 26, 2024

In mid-April President Xi restructured a portion of the PLA, replacing the Strategic Support Force with a new entity called the Information Support Force.  It is suspected that the change will streamline the military, give Xi more political control, and better oversight of the PLA (Defense News).

A tornado in southern China kills 5, damages factories in Guangzhou suburb / April 27, 2024

A tornado struck the Baiyun district of Guangzhou on Saturday afternoon, killing 5, injuring dozens and damaging more than 125 buildings.  Guangzhou is close to Hong Kong.  US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen recently visited Guangzhou during her trip to China (AP News).

At least 24 dead, dozens injured, after road collapses in southern China / May 1, 2024

A nearly 60-foot stretch of a highway in Guangdong province caved in early Wednesday morning just after 2:00 am, killing at least 24 and injuring dozens more.  The region has recently been deluged with rain and flooding (Al Jazeera). 

China's young, feeling the squeeze of cost of living, are “lying flat” / April 26, 2024

With high unemployment, a challenging job market, and stressful lifestyles in China’s big cities, many of China’s young adults are opting to move to smaller cities where the pace is slower and housing is significantly less expensive. “Lying flat” is opting out of the competitive “rat race” for a period of time until the economy improves (ABC News).

Shanghai: Traditional Culture, Human Sin / May 2, 2024

A Chinese pastor describes the changes that occurred in him as he came to know Jesus and grew in faith, especially how he viewed himself culturally.  Traditional Chinese culture promotes humanism, a positive perspective of human goodness, so identifying oneself as a sinner is very difficult for a person to do in Chinese culture.  Understanding the gospel, then, too, is a challenge, but it is what each person needs (China Partnership).

China seeks to ‘influence and interfere’ upcoming US presidential elections / April 27, 2024

Despite President Xi’s assurance that China is not and will not interfere in the upcoming US presidential election, Secretary of State Antony Blinken accused China of being involved in the very same thing, based on evidence that Blinken claimed he had.  Blinken had completed his second visit to China, spending 3 days there (Mint).

Blinken warns China over support for Russia’s war efforts / April 26, 2024

Along with a myriad of other topics, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned President Xi the US would respond if China is found supporting Russia with “dual-use” products and financial support through its banking system.  Blinken did not reveal exactly what the US would do if such evidence were found, but more sanctions would be likely (VOA).

Ukraine war briefing: US hits China with sanctions over war supplies to Russia / May 1, 2024

On Wednesday, the US announced that it hit nearly 300 companies in China, Russia, and other nations with sanctions for their role in supplying Russia with support for its war against Ukraine.  This follows US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s warning to China that it would do so if it found evidence of such support for Russia.  It is hoped that the sanctions will disrupt Russia’s ability to carry out its war against Ukraine (The Guardian).

Taiwan reports Chinese military activity after Blinken leaves Beijing / April 26, 2024

A dozen military aircraft crossed the unofficial demarcation line between China and Taiwan only a day after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks with Chinese officials and President Xi Jinping.  Stability in the Taiwan Strait was one of Blinken’s talking points during his visit (Reuters).

Philippines alleges China damaged vessel in South China Sea disputed shoal / April 30, 2024

The Philippines says that Chinese coast guard ships shot water cannons at some Philippine ships on patrol in the Scarborough Shoal, damaging one of them.  The event is the latest in the skirmishes between the two countries.  China took control of the Shoal in 2012, but since then, an international tribunal declared China’s claim illegal (Al Jazeera).

China trying to develop world ‘built on censorship and surveillance’ / May 2, 2024

In 2015, China launched its “Digital Silk Road,” promoting its tech and internet industries to create partnerships with other countries, much like its Belt and Road Initiative.  But surveillance was part of the package, both for China’s CCP and for those governments who joined the project.  Article 19, a human rights watchdog group, charges that the Digital Silk Road is rewriting the rules of a free and open internet to one of censorship and surveillance (Al Jazeera).

Nearly half of China's major cities are sinking, researchers say / April 19, 2024

“Subsidence”— the gradual caving in or sinking of an area of land—is occurring under 45% of China’s major cities according to a research study.  Underground water depletion, geothermal well production, and the concentrated weight of urban centers are causing the land to sink between 3 and 16 millimeters a year, which will eventually put some cities under sea level (NBC News).

Chinese students in the US tell of ‘chilling’ interrogations and deportations / April 20, 2024

While the US State Department approves hundreds of thousands of student visas from China each year, dozens of Chinese students have been interrogated or denied entry into the US, even though they have valid student visas.  The connection: many Chinese universities have partnerships with the Chinese military, so students from such universities may be refused entry into the US (The Guardian).

Germany and Britain detain suspected Chinese spies / April 23, 2024

German and British authorities have arrested three nationals in Germany and two in Britain for providing sensitive products or information to China.  Suspicion is rising in the EU over China’s attempts to spy and influence politics in the EU.  China blasted Germany and Britain, accusing them of defaming China (Al Jazeera).

Tesla Slashes EV, FSD Prices In Latest Strategy Shift / April 22, 2024

Prices for Tesla cars in the US, China, and Europe have been on a roller-coaster ride recently as the company tries to increase demand and still maintain profits. Over last weekend, the company cut prices again on some of its vehicles and its Self-Driving service.  Tesla stock fell 14% last week and another 4% on Monday.  Chinese EV manufacturers’ stock also fell (Investor’s Business Daily).

The bubble has burst: On the road to a lost Chinese economic decade / April 22, 2023

In spite of some recent good news on China’s economy, an economic strategist declares that China’s economic bubble has burst and is heading into a “lost economic decade,” such as Japan endured in the 1980s.  President Xi’s use of Deng Xiaoping’s 1980s market reforms will not help (The Hill).

Massive floods threaten millions as intense rains batter southern China / April 22, 2024

Record-breaking torrential rains have caused massive flooding in Guangdong province in southern China, killing 4 and displacing more than 110,000 people.  Numerous weather stations in the area have set new rainfall records.  Guangdong province is heavily populated and is prone to flooding from April through September (CNN).

China is committed to resolving maritime disputes through talks / April 21, 2024

While condemning “gunboat muscles” and aggressive tactics in the South China Sea at the Western Pacific Naval Symposium, a top Chinese military official declared that China is still willing to use diplomatic talks to resolve maritime issues.  The Symposium was attended by US, Australian, French, English, Russian, and Indian representatives (Reuters).

China hosts talks between rival Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah / April 26, 2024

While China is not confirming it, reports indicate that China is hosting talks in Beijing between Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah to unite the parties and broker a two-state solution with Israel.  China is seeking a greater role in the Middle East and has been encouraged by the US to be more involved (SCMP).

China warns US after Senate passes aid bill worth billions to Taiwan / April 24, 2023

After the US Senate approved a funding bill for Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan, China warned the US to stop arming Taiwan.  $8 billion was earmarked for Taiwan in the bill.  Taiwan has also signed contracts with the US for fighter jets, tanks, and rockets (The Guardian).

Xi Jinping meets Blinken, urges America to be a partner, not a rival / April 26, 2024

Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with President Xi in Beijing this week as the two countries mark their 45th anniversary of holding diplomatic talks with one another.  President Xi called for mutual respect between the nations and working as partners.  Blinken brought up concerns about “overcapacity” in trade and China’s financial partnerships with Russia (SCMP).

China launches 3-member crew to its space station / April 25, 2024

China sent a 3-man crew to its space station on Thursday, one of four missions planned for this year to the space station.  The new crew will replace the current crew on the station and will stay there for about 6 months.  China plans to open its station to foreign astronauts in the future and has ambitions to send crews to the moon and probes to Mars by 2030 (AP News).

China ‘deeply concerned’ after Iran strikes, online posts oppose Israel / April 14, 2024

China’s foreign ministry expressed concern over the escalation of conflict in the Middle East this week, urging all the parties to return to calm. Chinese companies have supplied materials to Iranian military production companies.  Meanwhile, Chinese social media posts largely supported Iran, although some supported Israel’s fight against terrorism (VOA).

China’s big move to cut off Australian iron ore / April 14, 2024

By striking a deal with Algeria to invest in a challenging and remote iron ore mine, China is seeking to diversify its resources for iron ore and to “de-risk” from its dependence on Australian ore, where it currently gets most of this raw material.  China makes the most steel in the world. Overall Chinese investment in Australia fell by over 33% in 2023 (news.com.au)

China reaffirms ties with North Korea in high-level meeting / April 13, 2024

Zhao Leji, the third highest-ranking member of the CCP, met with Kim Jong-un last Saturday, reaffirming ties between North Korea and China.  It was the first meeting between the two countries since the pandemic began and North Korea closed its borders (The Guardian).

China had 'special place' in PM Modi's heart, now, it's a thorn in his side / April 13, 2024

More than a decade ago, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi viewed China as a country to emulate and learn from.  Since then, China’s bullish, growing influence in South Asia and its military aggression along India’s disputed border with China have soured that perspective.  Now, India has to play “catch-up” (The Economic Times).

China’s economy expands by a surprisingly strong pace in 1st  quarter / April 16, 2024

China’s GDP grew by 5.3% in the first quarter of 2024, marking a positive start to the new year.  Industrial production grew by 6.1% over the same period, boosted by high-tech manufacturing, specifically EV’s, solar panels, and batteries, which are already overflowing into the global market.  Domestic spending, high unemployment, and the real estate market are still suffering, however (CNN Business).

US prepared to 'take further steps' as it warns China against enabling Russia / April 17, 2024

A US Secretary of State official declared that the US is prepared to take further actions—most likely in the form of sanctions—against China if it continues to support Russia through the sale of dual-use items that Russia can use in its war against Ukraine.  The G-7 met this week in Italy to reaffirm the bloc’s commitment to Ukraine’s fight against Russia (VOA).

Biden wants to triple China tariffs on steel and aluminum imports / April 17, 2024

President Biden is threatening to triple the 7.5% tariff on aluminum and steel products from China in an effort to level the playing field after China subsidized many of the metals’ manufacturers and then plans to flood the market with those lower-cost items. China denies the concept that subsidies would cause the overcapacity of products (CNBC).

Europe wants 2 things from China. It may not get far on either of them / April 18,  2024

EU leaders are hoping to get China to put pressure on Russia to end the war in Ukraine, and they are asking China to not flood the global market—especially the EU market—with its subsidized green-energy products like electric vehicles and solar panels.  As much as different EU leaders have requested these important items, it is unlikely China will honor them (ABC News).

China, US defense chiefs hold first substantive talks in 18 months / April  17, 2024

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin met with his Chinese counterpart, Dong Jun via videoconference in an effort to establish a more stable relationship between the two nations and to open the lines of communication between the two military entities.  Russia, Ukraine, Taiwan, and the South China Sea were among the topics they discussed (Al Jazeera).

China is funding the U.S. fentanyl crisis, House panel says in new report / April 15, 2024

A US House Panel reported that the Chinese government is using grants, tax rebates, and other incentives to Chinese manufacturers who produce the precursors to synthesize fentanyl and other drugs in the US.  So far, neither China nor the US have done much to stop the production and flow of the fentanyl trade.  The report offers strategies to attempt to stem the crisis (NBC News).

Chinese archaeologists reconstruct face of 6th century emperor using new technique / April 6, 2024

Using a new DNA technique, Chinese archeologists were able to reconstruct the face of the 6th century emperor Wu, after obtaining enough DNA criteria from his degraded bones.  The process also sheds light on what may have killed the young emperor, who only lived to the age of 36.  The new technique may assist researchers in helping the Chinese people retrace their ancestral lineage (SCMP).

As China’s economy falters, so does middle-class confidence / April 10, 2024

With 700 million people, China’s middle class is the largest in the world.  But as China’s economy still struggles to rebound, that middle class is reluctant to jumpstart a “consumer-driven economy.”  Instead, they are saving their money or choosing quality, off-brand products over name brands (NBC News).

China’s young people are giving up on saving for retirement / April 7, 2024

While China’s economy continues to sputter, another economic problem is arising:  China’s pension system.  In the next decade, 40% of China’s population will be over 60, but many younger workers today are not contributing to China’s pension system, creating another economic challenge.  Like the US and other Western countries, China’s pension system is becoming unsustainable (The Business Times).

China's Shimao faces liquidation suit over failure to pay $202 million loan / April 8, 2024

Another Chinese developer, Shimao Group, has received a liquidation petition from China Construction Bank in Hong Kong.  Shimao reported that it would fight the lawsuit and move forward with its restructuring plan.  While still in trouble, China’s property sector is not as volatile this year as it has been in the past (Reuters).

China's Xi says nobody can stop 'family reunion' with Taiwan / April 10, 2024

President Xi Jinping met with former Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou this Wednesday, vowing that nothing could stop the Chinese family on the island and on the mainland from being reunited.  Ma is the first former Taiwan president to visit Beijing, and this is his second trip to the mainland (Reuters).

The U.S. and Japan announce historic upgrade in security ties to counter China / April 10, 2024

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met with President Biden on Wednesday as the two nations announced a stronger alliance for the future.  Increased military cooperation, the possible purchase of US Steel Co. by Japan’s Nippon Steel, and even space exploration on the moon were among the topics of conversation (NBC News).

Philippines, U.S., Australia, and Japan hold joint military drills in South China Sea / April 7. 2024

The US, Japan, the Philippines, and Australia conducted joint military exercises in the South China Sea on Sunday in an effort to coordinate their military strategies in the event of a threat to the status quo in the region.  China responded by saying it conducted its own drills in the area.  Tensions continue to rise, especially between China and the Philippines (The Japan Times).

Russia, China to talk about deeper security co-operation in Eurasia, Lavrov says / April 9, 2024

China and Russia are working to further deepen their strategic partnership in Eurasia as a hedge against what they see as the US’s efforts to impose its will in the region.  Since Russia invaded Ukraine and the US imposed sanctions on Russia, Russia and China have benefitted from increased trade and military cooperation (Reuters).

China-Taiwan tension brings troops, missiles, and anxiety to Japan's paradise island / April 10, 2024

As Japan builds up its military defense against what it sees as China’s aggression in the region, it has established a military base on the pristine “paradise” island called Ishigaki, which lies only 150 miles from Taiwan.  Local residents protested the military’s plans to build a base there, but rising political tensions in the area have taken precedence (CBS News)

From unfair trade to TikTok: US Treasury Secretary Yellen’s China trip / April 9, 2024

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s trip to China earlier this week met with mixed success in achieving her goals.  “Overcapacity,” or China’s flooding of the global market with subsidized products, money laundering and the fentanyl crisis, TikTok, and financial stability were all discussed, along with her restaurant choices (Al Jazeera).

Biden, China's Xi hold phone call on Taiwan, AI, trade / April 2, 2024

President Biden and President Xi held a phone call on Tuesday, allegedly discussing topics like Taiwan, narcotics, AI and China’s support for Russia during Russia’s war against Ukraine.  A Chinese representative stated that the Taiwan issue is the most important matter between the two countries.  While Biden has said the US would intervene if China were to invade the island, but has had to walk that commitment back (Fox News).

Biden tells China's Xi to stay out of US elections / April 2, 2024

Among the many topics on Presidents Biden and Xi’s phone call on Tuesday came a warning from President Biden to China to stay out of the upcoming presidential elections in November.  Stability across the Taiwan Strait, South China Sea tensions and China’s support for Russia were also on President Biden’s talk list with President Xi (VOA).

China sends warplanes, boats around Taiwan following Presidential phone call / April 3, 2024

China conducted another military exercise around the island of Taiwan with 30 aircraft and 9 warships, the largest exercise so far this year, and just on the heels of the phone call between Presidents Biden and Xi, where Pres. Biden called for stability in the Taiwan Strait.  No mention was made if the military exercise had been previously planned and occurred coincidentally after the phone call (Fox News).

Media feel pressure to tell ‘positive’ China story as party tightens grip / April 4, 2024

Sixth Tone, and online Chinese magazine that began in 2016, used to present articles on the current issues of the people of China, even if those stories presented a negative aspect about China.  But recently, censors and CCP regulations are pulling even more independent minded media outlets into conformity with Xi Jinping Thought (Al Jazeera).

Starved of Affection at Home, Young Chinese Seek Out ‘Digital Parents’ / March 25, 2024

“Digital Parenting” is a new phenomenon on China’s media sites as children of disciplinarian or disengaged parents are drawn to the caring and consoling messages of parenting influencers, even though the parenting posts are generic and may be posted by imposters.  One digital parenting couple has over 1 million followers (Sixth Tone).

Ex-Taiwanese Pres. Ma visits China to help build social, cultural links / April 1, 2024Former Taiwanese Former Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou visited China this week in a cultural exchange that included a group of Taiwanese students.  President Ma may meet with President Xi in Beijing.  Ma represents the political wing of Taiwan that is more “pro-China” than the current President and the President elect Lai Ching-te (AP News).

Taiwan emerges remarkably unscathed after massive earthquake / April 4, 2024

Taiwan experienced a 7.4 magnitude earthquake on Wednesday morning, and although 9 people had died as of Thursday, overall the island did not suffer as much damage or loss of life than it had in the past.  After a 1999 earthquake that killed over 2000 people, authorities implemented building codes and retrofitted older buildings with support structures, and it appears to have paid off (NPR).

China should not repeat history with Taiwan’s quake / April 3, 2024

As the world responds to Taiwan’s latest devastating earthquake, one journalist recommends that China Tasimply stay out of the way, and let other nations supply aid to the island.  In 1999, when an earthquake also struck Taiwan, China’s involvement in the aid process slowed that aid in getting to the island.  Already China has described the earthquake’s epicenter occurring east of “China’s Taiwan” (Bloomberg News).

Taiwan rebukes China following global concern over earthquake: ‘Shameless’ / April 4, 2024

One of China’s UN representatives offered thanks to the global community for its aid to Taiwan following the earthquake, claiming that the aid was really given to China and not to Taiwan.  Taiwan called the statement “shameless” (The Hindustan Times).

China's central bank says it will make efforts to expand demand, boost confidence / April 3, 2024

The People’s Bank of China reported a number of measures to boost the economy at its quarterly meeting this week in order to boost domestic demand and increase consumer confidence.  While China’s economy reportedly has had a positive first quarter, it still faces significant challenges to a full recovery (Reuters).

India rejects China's renaming of 30 places in Himalayan border state / April 2, 2024

In an attempt to further its claim on disputed territory between China and India, China gave new names to 30 locations in the territory called Arunachal Pradesh by India on Tuesday.  In response, India rejected the new names, with the Indian Foreign Minister declaring, “If I give your house a new name, does it become my house?” (Reuters).

China’s March factory activity expands for first time in six months / April 4, 2024

The official purchasing managers’ index (PMI) rose to 50.8in March from 49.1 in February, indicating a positive move in China’s economy that hasn’t been seen in six months.  New export orders also rose into positive territory, suggesting that there are signs that the economy is getting a better footing (Hellenic Shipping News).

Country Garden liquidation petition adds to China's property woes / February 27, 2024

Ever Credit Ltd, a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based Kingboard Holdings, filed a liquidation petition against Chinese property developer Country Garden this week.  Only last month China’s largest developer, Evergrande Group, was ordered to be liquidated.  Country Garden’s liquidation process may further slow China’s economic recovery (Reuters).

China's economy is unraveling at a pace previously thought unimaginable / February 26, 2024

Australia’s government recently announced that it would double the size of its navy in response to rising tensions in the region, specifically China.  But China’s economic ties to Australia may be the bigger threat as China’s economy continues to implode.  The concern is that domestic troubles often inspire militaristic leaders to cause trouble outside of their borders (ABC News).

 China has the biggest diplomatic footprint in the world just ahead of US / February 25, 2024

China now leads the world in the number of embassies or diplomatic representatives in other countries, edging out the US 274 to 271.  Australia, however, only has 124, mostly in the South Pacific region. China’s presence is greater in Asia and Africa, while the US emphasis is in the Americas and Europe (ABC News).

Why has the EU sanctioned Indian, and Chinese companies for Russia links? / February 29, 2024

Close to the anniversary of Russia’s attack on Ukraine, the EU has added another 27 entities to its list of sanctioned countries, companies, and individuals.  Seven companies—4 from Hong Kong and 3 from China—are of Chinese origin.  The sanctioned entities are suspected of selling “dual-use” products to Russia.  China condemned the new sanctions, but it is mostly symbolic (Al Jazeera).

China lauds Russia relations and calls for strengthened Asia-Pacific role / February 28, 2024

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong praised the relationship between China and Russia after a recent trip to Russia, stating that the warm relationship is at a new high.  While the relationship may be strong, Russia is a bit concerned about China’s interest in Russia’s sparsely populated, resource-rich eastern territory which is 11 time zones from Moscow (Al Jazeera).

China sees ‘unprecedented’ hurdles in keeping state secrets safe / February 29, 2024

China recently updated a 2010 law on keeping state secrets to bolster national security.  The law now also includes information or “work secrets” that are not classified but could be used in a negative way against the CCP.  The updates present further challenges for civil workers, foreign companies, and even citizens to avoid trouble if they share too much (Hindustan Times).

Reporting from China: How this trip was different / February 25, 2024

Few Western journalists have gone to China since 2020 when the CCP cracked down on foreign media.  A 60 Minutes journalist recently went to China and found that there was less interference by police and secret service personnel.  But that was because surveillance is now done via cameras. The government also tried to manipulate the interviews 60 Minutes tried to arrange (60 Minutes).

China could seize the moon. We need to stop them / February 29, 2024

Just as China expanded its territorial claims in the South China Sea, it may also have its sites set on claiming territory on the moon.  While the US just recently landed a spacecraft on the moon after a 50-year hiatus, China has done the same three times in the last decade and has at least two more landings planned in the near future.  China is eyeing the moon’s southern pole where there may be ice (Fox News).

Images reveal floating barrier at mouth of disputed atoll in South China Sea / February 25, 2024

Satellite images showed a floating barrier blocking the entrance to the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on Feb. 22nd.  The barrier was placed there by China to block a Philippine vessel attempting to enter the shoal and was removed after the vessel left.  The situation is the latest escalation of tensions between the two countries (Reuters).

Taiwan says 5 Chinese coast guard ships entered waters near front-line islands / February 27, 2024

A Taiwan minister reported that 5 Chinese coast guard ships entered “restricted” waters around Kinmen, an island just off the coast of mainland China that Taiwan claims as its own.  China does not recognize any restriction zone, although the ships left the area after Taiwan warned them to leave. Taiwan has a military garrison on the island (NBC News).

China urges largest nuclear states to negotiate a 'no-first-use' treaty / February 27, 2024

Sun Xiaobo, a representative of China’s Foreign Ministry, called on nuclear powers to pledge to a “no-first-use” policy to prevent nuclear war.  China and India are the only countries that have signed such an agreement. He also included emerging technologies, including AI and military developments in space to the concept (Reuters).

Scathing details reveal why Biden appears 'silent' on China's role in fentanyl crisis / February 27, 2024

Author Peter Schweizer claims that the Biden family has financial ties to both the CCP and leading drug kingpins in China who fuel the fentanyl drug trade through the Sinaloa drug cartel in Mexico.  Additionally, Hunter Biden’s legal counsel, Abbe Lowell, also represented nefarious Chinese operatives.  Did the money buy President Biden’s silence (Fox News)?

China cuts key interest rate in the latest move to boost its ailing property sector / February 20, 2024

China’s central bank cut its 5-year prime loan rate by .25 points to 3.95% on Tuesday in an effort to boost the Chinese economy.  It left the 1-year rate as is at 3.45%.  The last rate cut for the 5-year loan was in May of 2023. China’s markets responded tepidly to the rate cut (AP News).

China reports ‘record’ holiday travel. But consumer spending isn’t roaring back yet / February 19, 2024

While China reported record travel during the Lunar New Year holiday, tourism-related spending was just shy of pre-pandemic figures even though this holiday was the longest in recent years.  Cinema ticket sales during the holiday hit record numbers, but that was not enough to turn the market around (CNN Business).

China's first homegrown airliner makes international debut in Singapore / February 18, 2024

The Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China’s new C919 made a fly-over at a Singapore air show on Sunday marking the first time the aircraft has flown outside of China.  China plans to increase its current fleet of 4 C919s to a competitive fleet similar to Boeing’s or Airbus’ global market.  Demand for new aircraft is high (Reuters).

Firms With Deep Roots in China Reconsider Their Xinjiang Ties / February 18, 2024

Volkswagen and chemical producer giant BASF are two German companies reconsidering their joint venture industries in China due to concerns that their products made in China included forced labor in Xinjiang province.  BASF has already begun liquidating its properties in China.  China has rejected the allegations (The New York Times).

Ship Crashes into Bridge in China, Killing 5 / February 22, 2024

An unfortunate accident occurred in the southern China city of Guangzhou when a cargo ship struck a supporting beam of a bridge, causing a section of the bridge to collapse.  Five vehicles fell, two into the water and three onto the ship, causing 5 deaths.  Plans to install anti-collision “measures” began in 2021 but were never initiated (New York Times).

Online dump of Chinese hacking documents offers window into state surveillance / February 21, 2024

A rare online dump of Chinese hacking documents from a company called I-Soon late last week revealed evidence of hacking of government entities and people within China and countries in Southeast Asia.  It is not clear who was responsible for the dump, perhaps a rival company or a disgruntled employee (AP News).

From boardrooms to battlefields: Chinese companies are forming military units / February 21, 2024

Concerned about potential social unrest or natural disasters within China and the potential for international war, the Chinese government is encouraging companies to create PAFDs:  People’s Armed Forces Departments, that is, military units formed from company employees.  Dairy producers, water plants, and a myriad of other companies have formed PAFDs to support the People’s Liberation Army should a crisis occur (The Times of India).

China increases patrols near Taiwan's Kinmen Archipelago after 2 fishermen die / February 18, 2024

Two Chinese fishermen drowned in the Taiwan Strait after their fishing boat was chased by a Taiwan coast guard ship and capsized.  Two other fishermen are in Taiwan’s custody.  China blamed Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party for the deaths of the two fishermen and vowed to take action to patrol the waters off the coast of Xiamen (VOA). 

China’s coast guard has triggered ‘panic’ in Taiwan / February 21, 2024

China’s coast guard is now boarding and “inspecting” Taiwanese tourist boats that sail in the Taiwan Strait to challenge Taiwan and its new president over the disputed waters between the two countries.  The new ploy made the tourists on one Taiwan boat very anxious, triggering alarm among the people of Taiwan (CNN).

Israel Gaza: China condemns US veto of call for immediate ceasefire at UN / February 21, 2024

The US vetoed an Algerian-sponsored ceasefire in Gaza this week, a move which China, and other UN nations, condemned as a license for the “slaughter” in Gaza to continue.  The US has its own proposal for a ceasefire, but it hasn’t been brought up for a vote yet.  There is concern the conflict could swell into a wider military conflict in the region (BBC).

China issues highest weather alert as temperatures plunge / February 21, 2024

A cold snap hit areas of China, including Beijing, on Wednesday, blanketing the capital city with a layer of snow.  The government issued its most severe warning over the media to warn citizens to take precautions due to the cold and snowy conditions.  Others, however, rejoiced over the picturesque scenes and the prosperous omen the snow brought (CAN).

History of Chinese New Year celebrations in China / February 9, 2024

This article provides a quick summary of the history of the Chinese New Year and Spring festivals, which find their beginnings over 4000 years ago, making them among the oldest holidays ever.  The festivals developed over time, but themes like honoring ancestors or parents, celebrating successful harvests or wishing for a successful future and incorporating art and decorations became strong and enduring traditions (the Hindustan Times).

China gears up to ring in Year of the Dragon with expected record 9 billion trips / February 9, 2024

A sign of good news in China is the record number of planned trips the Chinese people plan to make during the Lunar New Year this month.  Perhaps their celebrations, gift exchanges and family meals will bring a boost to the consumer demand numbers that have been sinking for almost a year in an economy that has other serious issues (CNN).

In the year of the dragon, will China breathe fire into its deflating economy? / February 8,2024

China’s economy continues to shrink with consumer prices sinking, including significant drops in food prices.  President Xi appears unwilling to use a stimulus package from the government, perhaps concerned about repeating a negative scenario from the early 2000’s (the Guardian).

China consumer prices plunge at fastest rate for 15 years as deflation fears deepen / February 8, 2024

China’s consumer price index fell by 0.8% in January compared to the same month last year, the largest drop since 2009.  China’s economy has been in a deflationary state since last summer.  One economist suggested, however, that the resulting numbers from the New Year holiday this month may boost consumer demand.  Many hope more government stimulus will spark a rebound in the economy (the Guardian).

China’s $7 trillion crash masks the really bad news / February 9, 2024

Economists say that since 2021, China’s economy has lost $7 trillion in market value, but the worse news is the CCP’s new war against the bad economic news itself.   The government is cracking down on any negative news about the economy, both in China and Hong Kong.  This puts investors and businesses in a catch-22 if they need to warn others about potential dangers in the economy (Forbes).

China’s well-to-do are under assault from every side / February 11, 2024

When China opened its economy to private investors around 1990, a generation of Chinese people started investing and became known as the “got-rich-first” group.  Today, just over 110 million Chinese citizens possess 50% of China’s wealth, but the current economic crisis is decimating their wealth.  Trust funds gone bad and other risky investments that fail are called “landmine explosions,” and China’s wealthy are in a minefield.  China’s government is not eager to bail them out (Hindustan Times).

China moves closer to Taliban regime amid search for natural resources / February 10, 2024

While not officially recognizing the Taliban, China has been solidifying business deals and trade partnerships with the Taliban and natural resource companies in Afghanistan, declaring that Afghanistan should not be ignored on the world stage.  China seems to be unconcerned about human rights abuses by the Taliban against women, and that the Taliban is still a terrorist organization (Fox News).

Why has China recognized Taliban’s envoy to Beijing? / February 14, 2024

While the rest of the world has avoided engaging with the Taliban government in Afghanistan because of its terrorist history and human rights abuses, “realism and opportunity” have compelled China and Afghanistan’s other neighbors to work with the Taliban rather than to avoid them.  China also has a long history of working with the Taliban (Al Jazeera).

How Taiwan’s elections challenge the power of China’s Communist Party / February 10, 2024

The CCP has declared that liberal democracy is incompatible with Chinese culture.  But Taiwan’s 8 democratic elections, including its most recent one in January, demonstrate that true democratic elections are indeed possible.  And that poses a threat to the CCP.  Social media posts in China praising the Taiwan election in January were quickly scrubbed by censors (Al Jazeera).

Taiwan reports more Chinese balloons over Taiwan Strait / February 10, 2024

Taiwan’s defense ministry stated that it had detected eight Chinese air balloons crossing over the Taiwan Strait on Saturday, with at least 5 crossing over Taiwan itself.  This was the second day in a row that Taiwan detected Chinese balloons in its territory, but China has done this many times before. Taiwan claims the balloons are a type of psychological warfare and are dangerous for air travel (Reuters). 

 U.S.-China Tensions Have a New Front: A Naval Base in Africa / February 10, 2024

Along with trade deals and naval ports, China is also inviting African countries to allow China to build naval bases for its military, especially along the Atlantic coast.  China evidently has approached Gabon and Equatorial Guinea with such an offer, but both countries have assured US officials that they have no agreement with China on this issue (WSJ).

Meet Hong Kong’s ‘Flower Granny’ artist, 92 – the city’s answer to Yayoi Kusama / February 8, 2024

Known as “Fapopo,” or “Flower Granny” in Cantonese, a 92-year-old woman in Hong Kong is gaining notoriety as a novel painter, similar to Japan’s Yayoi Kusama.  Fapopo sold flowers for nearly 60 years until she retired at the age of 80.  A house project turned her to painting on everyday household items, which have been displayed in some Hong Kong art exhibitions (SCMP).

China, Russia and Iran to hold navy drills aimed at ‘regional security’ / February 6, 2024

While the West recently has responded to Iran-backed Houthi attacks on US bases in the Middle East, China, Russia, and Iran are planning to hold joint naval drills to protect regional security for the second time.  The drills will likely occur in March.  China has asked Iran to urge the Houthis to pull back their attacks on ships in the Red Sea (SCMP).

Russia and China slam US for Middle East strikes / February 6, 2024

Russia, China, and other nations accused the US of escalating tensions with its attacks against Iranian-backed proxies after those groups attacked US bases, killing three US soldiers.  Russia also accused the Biden administration of using the strikes to boost its election campaign (Al Jazeera).

China launches Jielong-3 rocket as commercial missions pick up pace / February 3, 2024

China Rocket Co. launched its Jielong-3 rocket carrying 9 satellites into space on Saturday, demonstrating China’s growing commercial space program, as other Chinese companies—including automakers—have also recently launched satellites to improve autonomous vehicle navigation.  In 2023, China was only behind the US in the number of rocket launches (Reuters).

China’s top prosecutors promise financial crime crackdown is about to ramp up / February 5, 2024

To further secure the economic environment in China, a senior prosecutor of the Supreme People’s Procuratorate stated that there will be an increase in crackdowns on financial crimes in the future, echoing Xi Jinping’s declaration that fighting financial crime is China’s “eternal theme” at the central finance work conference in late October (SCMP).

Is China’s economy in serious trouble? / February 4, 2024

Last week’s Hong Kong court declaration that Evergrande would be liquidated marked a significantly bad week for China’s economy as foreign investors also fled the Chinese stock market.  Some speculate that 2024 will be a sluggish year that China will have to crawl through, hopefully to a better economic picture if the government’s economic reforms work (Al Jazeera).

In China, Deflation Tightens Its Grip / February 8, 2024

Consumer prices fell again in January at “their steepest pace in more than 14 years” signaling the possibility that deflation is strengthening its grip on the Chinese economy.  China’s stock market plunged on Wednesday, prompting the government to replace its top securities regulator.  Chinese companies may try to sell their goods at cheaper prices abroad, threatening other markets (WSJ).

Chinese migrants are the fastest-growing group crossing US southern border / February 4, 2024

In 2023, over 37,000 Chinese migrants entered the US illegally through the southern border, fifty times more than two years before.  Many have crossed the border with rolling suitcases as if they had just disembarked from an airplane.  They say they are coming to find work and freedom (CBS News).

Australian Yang Receives Suspended Death Sentence in China / February 4, 2024

Australian writer Yang Hengjun was sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of espionage if he doesn’t commit any serious crimes in the next two years.  Yang had worked for the Chinese government but became an advocate for democracy.  He moved to Australia, and began blogging and writing spy novels, but was arrested while visiting China in 2019 (Bloomberg).

US says it blocked China cyber-threat but warns hackers can ‘wreak havoc’ / February 1, 2024

US officials stated that they partially dismantled a Chinese cyber operation called Volt Typhoon that was attempting to disrupt public utilities in the event of a conflict between China and Russia.  By disrupting water, electricity, and gas lines,  the hackers could create chaos to weaken any US response to foreign aggression (Al Jazeera).  

US says it blocked China cyber-threat but warns hackers can ‘wreak havoc’ / February 1, 2024

US officials stated that they partially dismantled a Chinese cyber operation called Volt Typhoon that was attempting to disrupt public utilities in the event of a conflict between China and Russia.  By disrupting water, electricity, and gas lines,  the hackers could create chaos to weaken any US response to foreign aggression (Al Jazeera).  

China-Africa trade increased in 2023 but Africa’s trade deficit widens / February 1, 2024

While China’s trade with Africa grew modestly in 2023, Africa’s trade deficit with China grew significantly from US$46.9 billion to US$64 billion.  Part of that, however, may be due to lower prices on raw materials, not necessarily a decrease in the volume of those raw materials.  China has promised to balance the trade deficit, but that will take time (SCMP).

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